A New Face in Ukraine Talks: Driscoll's Unexpected Diplomatic Role

In a surprising turn, Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, known as the "drone guy, " has become a key player in the U. S. effort to end the Ukraine war. This 38-year-old Army veteran, who has no background in diplomacy, was tasked by President Trump to push Ukraine into peace talks. Driscoll's close friendship with Vice President JD Vance, his Yale Law School classmate, seems to have played a role in his sudden rise to this diplomatic stage. Driscoll's mission began with a weeklong trip across three countries. He met with Ukrainian officials in Geneva and Russian representatives in Abu Dhabi. The goal? To secure a peace agreement based on a revised 28-point proposal. While Ukraine has agreed to the "key terms, " Russia has yet to sign off. This high-stakes assignment highlights Driscoll's growing influence within the administration, despite his lack of diplomatic experience. Trump's approach to international crises is anything but conventional. He often relies on personal or business connections rather than career diplomats. Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law, has been crucial in the Middle East, and Steve Witkoff, a longtime business associate, focuses on Ukraine and Gaza. Driscoll's involvement in the Ukraine talks is just another example of this trend. However, Driscoll's new role has not been without controversy. His close ties to the White House and Vice President Vance have caused tension with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. While Driscoll was overseas handling sensitive diplomacy, Hegseth was at home, leading an investigation into Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly. This stark contrast in roles has not gone unnoticed. Driscoll's assignment also sheds light on Hegseth's strained relationship with Ukraine. The Pentagon chief paused U. S. weapons shipments to the country multiple times without informing them or the White House. He also ruled out Ukrainian membership in NATO early in his tenure. These missteps may have paved the way for Driscoll's unexpected diplomatic role. Despite his lack of experience, Driscoll's trust within Trump's inner circle is undeniable. But can he navigate the complexities of international diplomacy, especially when dealing with the Russians? Former U. S. Ambassador to Poland Daniel Fried warns that Driscoll needs someone who understands the details and can detect the "stink bombs" the Russians might throw.