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By Hollie Silverman and Gabe Whisnant
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President Donald Trump’s special envoy for Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, has told associates he plans to leave the administration in January, a move that would strip Kyiv of one of its strongest advocates inside the White House, sources told Reuters.
Kellogg’s position is a temporary designation that would require Senate confirmation to continue past 360 days, and the retired lieutenant general has described January as a natural point to step aside, the sources said.
Why It Matters
Kellogg’s departure is viewed as a blow to Ukrainian and European officials, who considered the retired lieutenant general a crucial figure capable of challenging Moscow and resisting Russian attacks on Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure.
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His exit raises questions over the future of U.S. policy toward Ukraine as internal debate continues within the Trump administration. With world attention still fixed on the Russia-Ukraine war, the move may be interpreted by some as a shift in Washington’s resolve at a key moment for Kyiv.
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What To Know
Kellogg has served as Trump’s special envoy to Ukraine since early 2025, in a role that did not initially require full Senate confirmation. Reuters reported that Kellogg’s decision to exit stemmed in part from the temporary nature of his role, which would have necessitated a confirmation process to extend his service beyond a 360-day tenure.
The news of Kellogg’s departure follows reported divisions within the White House regarding Ukraine policy.
Trump’s most recent posture has been described as shifting, with uncertainty over the administration’s longer-term strategy toward Kyiv and Moscow. This uncertainty has reportedly unsettled some European allies who depend on consistent U.S. policy for guidance and support.
Amid the transition of the envoy, Trump has indicated support for new sanctions against Russia.
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina told reporters that Trump called Senate Majority Leader John Thune to urge quick passage of a delayed sanctions bill addressing Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
According to CNN’s Manu Raju, this conversation took place while Graham and Thune were together on a golf course, but the passage was delayed due to House inactivity. Thune reportedly said the House must act first before further progress is possible.
Trump’s willingness to sign the Senate’s Russia sanctions bill, if passed, remains an important development as policymakers debate Washington’s next steps on Ukraine.
What People Are Saying
Senator Lindsey Graham told CNN’s Manu Raju: “President Donald Trump phoned Senate Majority Leader John Thune on Sunday...and urged him to ‘move the bill,’ referring to the long-delayed Russia sanctions package.”
What Happens Next
Kellogg’s departure is expected in January, at which point the Trump administration will need to determine a replacement or consider restructuring its Ukraine diplomatic efforts. The Senate must also decide on any confirmation process should a new nominee be named.
Meanwhile, momentum behind the Russia sanctions bill is likely to continue, with the House first required to advance the legislation before it reaches the president’s desk for signature.
Update 11/19/25, 4:14 p.m. ET: This article was updated with additional information.
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