The Trump administration’s special envoy to Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg, made a significant statement regarding the cutoff of intelligence sharing from the US to Ukraine, indicating that Ukraine was responsible for this action. This move, which includes a partial halt in intelligence sharing and a pause in military aid shipments to Kyiv, is seen as a concession to Russia and has raised concerns about Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russian forces. The strained relationship between the US and Ukraine was highlighted during a recent heated argument in the Oval Office involving President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The impact of the cutoff on Ukraine’s military capabilities is expected to be severe, potentially leaving civilians in Ukrainian cities vulnerable to Russian attacks. Kellogg suggested that Ukraine could regain intelligence sharing and military aid by finalizing a proposed minerals deal with the US. He emphasized the importance of having a signed agreement before moving forward.
During a Council on Foreign Relations event, Kellogg compared the impact of the cutoff to getting a mule’s attention with a 2×4, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. He reiterated that Ukraine had been forewarned about the consequences of their actions. Kellogg’s remarks underscore the administration’s firm stance on ending the war and sending a clear message to Ukraine about the seriousness of the situation.
