Exclusive: Trump picks Bush-era diplomat for Ukraine envoy as peace push looms

November 13, 2024

By Ukraine

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While Donald Trump begins assembling his foreign policy team, with Elise Stefanik tapped for UN Ambassador and key ally Israel receiving Mike Huckabee as envoy, the position of US Ambassador to Ukraine remains unfilled. Sources in Washington told Euromaidan Press that John E. Herbst, 72, who served as Ambassador to Ukraine during George W. Bush’s administration, is being considered for the role.

John E. Herbst, 72, served as US Ambassador to Ukraine during George W. Bush’s administration in 2003-2006. Photo: RFE/RL

Herbst, who previously served in Kyiv from 2003 to 2006, played a key role in strengthening US-Ukrainian relations during a pivotal moment in Ukraine’s democratic development. He helped ensure a peaceful resolution to the Orange Revolution – massive pro-democracy protests that erupted after a fraudulent presidential election and successfully prevented Viktor Yanukovych from assuming the presidency through voter fraud, leading to Viktor Yushchenko’s democratic victory.

Now directing the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center, he maintains close ties with Ukraine through frequent visits and has consistently advocated for robust military support, viewing Putin’s actions as an existential threat to Ukrainian independence.

The appointment comes as Trump’s administration reportedly prepares to push for Moscow-Kyiv negotiations. This could lead to a frozen conflict scenario with a demilitarized zone and a 20-year pause on Ukraine’s NATO aspirations.

In parallel moves, President Zelenskyy’s office is preparing to replace Ukraine’s Ambassador to the US, Oksana Markarova, with candidates already shortlisted.

Trump’s broader foreign policy team is taking shape with Marco Rubio nominated for Secretary of State, Michael Waltz for National Security Advisor, Pete Hegseth for Defense Secretary, and John Ratcliffe for CIA chief. While Rubio’s confirmation appears likely, Hegseth, a Fox News host and army veteran, may face challenges in the GOP-controlled Congress.

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