Trump is considering former intelligence chief Grenell for the position of special representative for the war between Russia and Ukraine, according to Reuters.
The elected President of the United States, Donald Trump, is considering appointing Richard Grenell, his former intelligence chief, as the special representative for the Russia-Ukraine conflict, according to four sources familiar with the transition team's plans, as reported by Reuters and UNN.
Details
Grenell, who served as Trump's ambassador to Germany and acted as the director of national intelligence during Trump's term from 2017 to 2021, would play a crucial role in Trump’s efforts to end the war if he is ultimately appointed to the position, the publication notes.
While there is currently no special representative focused solely on resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Trump is considering the establishment of this position, according to four sources.
Ultimately, Trump may decide against appointing such a special representative, although he is seriously contemplating doing so, sources reported. If he proceeds, he might select someone else for the role, and there are no guarantees that Grenell would accept.
Trump vowed during his campaign to swiftly end the war, although he did not specify how he would achieve this.
Some of Grenell's positions, the publication notes, "may give Ukrainian leaders pause."
During a Bloomberg roundtable in July, he advocated for the creation of "autonomous zones" as a means to resolve the conflict that began after Russia invaded Ukrainian sovereign territory. He also stated that he would not support Ukraine's accession to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in the near future, a stance he shares with many of Trump's allies, the publication writes.
Grenell's supporters point out that he has a long diplomatic career and extensive knowledge of European affairs. In addition to serving as ambassador to Germany, Grenell was also the special representative of the president for peace negotiations in Serbia and Kosovo.
Caroline Levitt, a spokesperson for Trump’s transition team, declined to comment, stating only that personnel decisions by the elected president "will continue to be announced by him as they are made."
Grenell did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the situation.
Addition
Grenell, who campaigned for Trump ahead of the November 5 elections, was the leading candidate for the position of Secretary of State.
In the end, he was surpassed by Republican Senator Marco Rubio, which reportedly surprised and disappointed some of Grenell's close allies.