US Envoy Suggests Aid Suspension Should Serve as Lesson for Ukraine

The United States' military assistance to Ukraine has reportedly been halted to encourage its leadership to engage in negotiations, according to remarks made by US Special Envoy Keith Kellogg. He likened the situation to getting the attention of a stubborn mule.

Kellogg explained that the suspension of aid was a temporary measure aimed at prompting Ukraine to come to the negotiating table. He emphasized that this decision does not signify a permanent cessation of support.

In his statements, Kellogg hinted that this halt might also influence US allies, indicating that they have similarly paused their support efforts. However, it remains unclear whether this includes the sharing of US intelligence by other nations.

Addressing the recent tensions within the White House, Kellogg indicated that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had misjudged the situation, stating that the Ukrainians have largely brought this on themselves. He criticized their attempt to persuade President Donald Trump to take a definitive stand against Russia, describing the escalation as avoidable.

Kellogg clarified that the suspension of aid was not a personal vendetta by Trump but rather a strategic maneuver that reflects a particular negotiating style. He noted that Trump had previously asserted he could resolve the conflict in Ukraine within 24 hours, but Kellogg pointed out that no timeline was specified.

He further urged Zelensky to finalize a resource deal, acknowledging that the Ukrainian leader had expressed willingness to do so but highlighting the difference between making an offer and actual implementation.

When questioned about exerting pressure on Russia, Kellogg refrained from providing a direct answer but admitted that there remains potential for increasing pressure on Moscow. He suggested that there is already a basis for negotiations from the Russian side, while the Ukrainian position appears less clear.

Overall, Kellogg's comments portrayed a somewhat positive view of Russia's readiness to negotiate. He referenced a nearly three-hour conversation between US envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian President Vladimir Putin, contrasting it with the Ukrainians leaving the Oval Office empty-handed.