Staff Reports
In a move that is sure to ruffle more than a few feathers in the Beltway, President-elect Donald Trump is reportedly eyeing Richard Grenell, the former acting director of National Intelligence, as his go-to person for navigating the increasingly tangled mess that is Ukraine. With the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine dragging on longer than a Netflix binge-watching session, Trump is aiming to appoint a special envoy to tackle this crisis – a position that currently doesn’t exist because, apparently, the last administration thought it was more important to focus on gender pronouns.
Grenell, who has spent more time in diplomatic circles than most have spent in their living rooms during lockdown, seems to be Trump’s top choice for this role. Previously, Grenell was in the running for Secretary of State, a position that ultimately went to Marco Rubio, likely because the GOP establishment couldn’t handle someone who actually knows what they’re doing. Now, with Trump making a comeback, Grenell’s extensive experience with European affairs could finally find a more suitable outlet beyond just rattling sabers.
However, not everyone is on board with Grenell’s approach. His past suggestions for resolving the Ukraine conflict, including the somewhat controversial idea of “autonomous zones,” have raised eyebrows among the Ukrainian leadership. It seems that Grenell doesn’t quite align with the prevailing narrative that the only way forward is to cozy up with NATO. Meanwhile, others might appreciate someone actually suggesting alternatives rather than just throwing more cash at the problem.
Grenell would be perfect. President Trump is reportedly considering former DNI and Ambassador to Germany @RichardGrenell “as his right-hand man regarding Ukraine.” @townhallcom
https://t.co/QSmjjIkgCe— NanLee Marie Carissimi (@NanLee1124) November 24, 2024
Those who have been paying attention know that Grenell has been a loyal Trump ally from the beginning. Unlike many who fled the MAGA ship when the waters got rough, Grenell has stuck around, helping to keep the USS Trump afloat through calmer and stormier seas alike. He was, after all, the only one in the room during a pivotal meeting when Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. That fact alone should give him a solid edge in these negotiations, or at least guarantee him a good story for the grandkids.
Trump’s potential hiring of Grenell is more than just a strategic move; it symbolizes a break from the old guard of diplomacy that seems more interested in political niceties than practical solutions. Grenell’s unwavering support for Trump has helped secure important political wins, such as swaying swing voting blocks in key states like Michigan and Pennsylvania. His upcoming role could serve as a stepping stone to not just stabilizing Ukraine, but reasserting American interests abroad with a good dose of Trumpian flair.
