President-elect Donald Trump has announced the nomination of retired General Keith Kellogg as the new special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, signaling a shift in U.S. diplomatic strategy. In a post on Truth Social, Trump praised Kellogg, a long-time advisor, for his unwavering support and commitment to strengthening U.S. defense policies.

Kellogg, 80, previously served as National Security Advisor to Vice President Mike Pence and as acting National Security Advisor to President Trump after Michael Flynn’s resignation. His new role will focus on managing the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which has escalated over the past two years.

Trump, who has been critical of the Biden administration’s continued support for Ukraine, has suggested he could swiftly end the war by negotiating directly with both parties. Kellogg’s appointment is seen as a move toward Trump’s “America First” foreign policy, with an emphasis on diplomacy and reducing U.S. involvement in prolonged international conflicts.

As the war nears its third year, Kellogg’s appointment comes at a crucial time, as the U.S. grapples with its approach to the ongoing crisis and weighs the possibility of achieving a peace deal.