In a recent interview, retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg, President Donald Trump’s special envoy to Ukraine, defended the administration’s decision to pause military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine. He likened this action to “hitting a mule with a two-by-four across the nose,” suggesting that such a jarring move was necessary to capture Ukraine’s attention. citeturn0search0
Kellogg explained that the suspension of aid was a response to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s perceived lack of gratitude for U.S. support since Russia’s invasion three years ago. He emphasized that Ukraine “brought it on themselves” by not aligning their peace negotiation strategies with President Trump’s objectives, leading to a diplomatic conflict. citeturn0news11
The U.S. administration is conditioning the resumption of military and intelligence support on Ukraine’s agreement to a rare-earth minerals deal. This proposed agreement is viewed as a joint economic investment that would provide security guarantees and further American interests. The decision to restore aid hinges on President Zelenskyy’s commitment to this deal and the establishment of private communications with President Trump. citeturn0news11
This development has significant implications for Ukraine’s defense capabilities, as the suspension of intelligence support is expected to impact their strategic operations against Russian forces. It also underscores the Trump administration’s “America First” approach, emphasizing that U.S. support is contingent upon specific concessions and alignment with American strategic interests. citeturn0news17
For a more in-depth understanding of Keith Kellogg’s perspective on the intelligence sharing pause, you can watch the following interview:
videoTrump’s Ukraine Envoy Kellogg Blames Zelensky for Intel and Aid Suspensionturn0search6