Richard “Ric” Grenell, the former acting director of National Intelligence, is reportedly under consideration to become the special envoy for the Russia-Ukraine conflict. President-elect Trump is considering creating the role to help bring an end to the war in Eastern Europe, and Grenell is a leading candidate for the position. However, it’s unclear if Grenell would accept the role if offered, and Trump may select someone else.
Grenell has a long diplomatic career, having served as ambassador to Germany and a special presidential envoy for Serbia and Kosovo peace negotiations. He has also advised various Republican candidates and was a foreign policy spokesman for Mitt Romney during the 2012 presidential campaign.
Some of Grenell’s previous statements may be of concern to Ukrainian leadership, as he has advocated for the creation of “autonomous zones” to settle the conflict and has suggested that Ukraine should not immediately join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
Despite this, Grenell’s supporters note that he has a deep knowledge of European affairs and has a long diplomatic career. It is unclear if Trump will create the new position or choose someone else for the role.
