Political scientist Ihor Reiterovych discusses new developments in negotiations between Ukraine and the US regarding a potential peace plan. He focuses on US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, who is increasingly taking a central role in communications between Kyiv and Washington.
According to Reiterovych, US media have reported that next week the United States will intensify efforts to persuade Ukraine to sign certain points of a peace agreement. These points, considered less favorable for Kyiv, have been under discussion for some time. Dan Driscoll, now a US special envoy for Ukraine peace, has taken over this process, replacing Keith Kellogg, who is soon to leave his post.
Reiterovych notes that although Driscoll lacks extensive strategic experience, he compensates with political skill and ties to influential leaders, in particular Vice President J.D. Vance and Donald Trump. Driscoll is described as energetic and ambitious, trusted by Trump’s and Vance’s teams, and is reportedly considered as a future candidate for top defense positions in the US administration.
The expert community also highlights Driscoll's tense relationship with Defense Secretary Pete Hect, with Driscoll being seen as a potential successor for the Pentagon’s top post. His involvement in Ukraine negotiations adds significant international and political capital to his profile.
Reiterovych suggests that the Ukrainian negotiating team should increase the role of military representatives in dialogue with Driscoll, as he communicates best with those who have direct military experience. Meanwhile, the success of the peace process depends on attaining terms that are at least minimally acceptable for Ukraine, since a weak position could undermine the US’s international image.
