KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Keith Kellogg, the U.S. special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, arrived in Kyiv on Wednesday for meetings with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and military leaders. This visit marks a significant shift in U.S. policy, moving away from a strategy aimed at isolating Russian President Vladimir Putin amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Kellogg's trip follows remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who implied on Tuesday that Ukraine bore responsibility for the ongoing war, which is entering its fourth year. Trump's statements could be troubling for Ukrainian officials who have consistently requested international support to combat the extensive Russian invasion that began on February 24, 2022. Furthermore, discussions among top American and Russian diplomats in Saudi Arabia have seemingly marginalized Ukraine and its European allies.

In light of these developments, Zalenskyy's decision to cancel his planned trip to Saudi Arabia was seen by analysts as a move to challenge the legitimacy of U.S.-Russia discussions concerning Ukraine's future. Reports indicate that the battlefield has recently seen relentless attacks by Russian forces, particularly in eastern Ukraine. The larger Russian military is reportedly making incremental advances, putting pressure on Ukrainian troops along the extensive 1,000-kilometer (600-mile) front line.

During a press interaction at his residence in Florida, Trump suggested that Ukraine "should have never started" the conflict and that a deal could have been reached to avert the war. Kellogg's comments upon arriving in Kyiv highlighted the significance of security for Ukraine, as American officials have indicated that Ukraine's aspirations to join NATO in the context of protecting against Russian aggression post-conflict are unlikely to be realized. Zelenskyy has clarified that any comprehensive peace settlement would necessitate U.S. security assurances to deter further Russian incursions.

"We understand the need for security guarantees," Kellogg stated, emphasizing the importance of Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence. He described his mission as one of listening and gathering insights to relay to Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, reiterating the commitment to "get this one right."

Kellogg's engagement in Kyiv underscores the complicated geopolitical dynamics as the conflict in Ukraine endures, highlighting the critical need for robust international responses and the ongoing discussions surrounding security and independence for Ukraine amidst a changing U.S. foreign policy landscape.

For more insights on the ongoing war in Ukraine, visit the dedicated coverage at AP News.