Donald Trump's recent choice of retired Army Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg as the U.S. envoy to Ukraine and Russia has triggered a renewed interest in a policy document co-authored by Kellogg. This plan, titled "America First, Russia & Ukraine," suggests stopping military aid to Ukraine unless it engages in peace negotiations and proposes increased support for Ukraine if Russia continues its aggression.

The policy paper criticizes President Joe Biden's foreign strategy, attributing the ongoing conflict to a "unserious and incoherent" approach that allegedly began with a hasty withdrawal from Afghanistan. It claims Biden's administration has prioritized the agendas of global elites over restoring a functional relationship with Russia, leading to increased tensions and reliance on China.

Kellogg and co-author Fred Fleitz argue that an "America First" strategy could have mitigated the invasion by advocating for a negotiation-based approach rather than issuing threats prior to Russia’s aggression. They emphasize that U.S. support for Ukraine should be contingent upon Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate, warning that failing to engage in talks could result in a decrease in American military support.

As the Biden administration works on increasing weapons transfers to Ukraine, tensions have heightened, leading to critical responses from Russia. In response to discussions surrounding U.S. assistance, including the potential provision of nuclear arms to Ukraine, the Kremlin has condemned such actions, labeling them as reckless.

Kellogg and Fleitz also acknowledge the difficulty Ukraine would face in accepting a settlement that does not restore full territorial control. However, they argue that a negotiated peace could prevent further loss of life among young men in Ukraine, suggesting that additional security guarantees might be needed.

Trump, affirming his stance on the conflict, says he possesses a unique ability to halt the war and reiterates the importance of European nations contributing more to the aid effort. Moreover, his appointment of Kellogg, arms him with a seasoned adviser who has experience both in military operations and in high-level political roles, including during significant events such as the January 6 Capitol incident.