President-elect Donald Trump announced Saturday that longtime foreign policy adviser Richard Grenell will serve as an envoy for special missions in the incoming administration. Grenell, a trusted Trump ally, is tasked with tackling some of the world’s most challenging foreign policy issues.
Grenell previously served as the U.S. ambassador to Germany during Trump’s first term, special presidential envoy for Serbia and Kosovo peace negotiations, and as acting Director of National Intelligence. Known for his blunt diplomatic style, Grenell’s approach often drew criticism from Washington’s foreign policy establishment but earned praise from Trump for its directness.
In his announcement on Truth Social, Trump stated, “Ric will work in some of the hottest spots around the World, including Venezuela and North Korea.” Grenell’s continued influence in Trump’s inner circle was evident when he participated in a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in September. He has advocated for a negotiated peace that maintains Ukraine’s territorial integrity while allowing for “autonomous regions” under Russian control.
Grenell has also echoed Trump’s skepticism toward NATO expansion, warning against including Ukraine until existing member countries meet the alliance’s defense spending commitment of 2% of GDP. This aligns with Trump’s longstanding criticism of NATO allies who fall short of their spending targets. Grenell clarified that Trump’s remarks about not defending “delinquent” NATO members were misinterpreted, saying, “The only talk of leaving the alliance altogether was really from the media.”
A strong supporter of Trump’s 2024 campaign, Grenell helped organize events focusing on economics and national security. He also played a key role in outreach to Arab American voters in Michigan, contributing to Trump’s gains with this traditionally Democratic demographic.
Grenell’s diplomatic experience includes serving as the U.S. spokesman at the United Nations during the George W. Bush administration. His new role as envoy for special missions positions him as a key figure in Trump’s efforts to reshape U.S. foreign policy with an “America First” agenda.
