Trump appoints Richard Grenell as special envoy for key global challenges

Dec 15, 2024 - Donald Trump, the newly elected U.S. president, has appointed Richard Grenell as presidential envoy for special missions. Grenell, a long-time foreign policy advisor to Trump, is expected to tackle some of the toughest international challenges facing the incoming administration.

Trump announced the decision on his social media platform, Truth Social, stating that Grenell would focus on global flashpoints such as Venezuela and North Korea. However, he did not elaborate on the specific duties of the role.

Sources from Trump’s transition team told Reuters that Grenell’s remit will also include addressing rising tensions in the Balkans.

Grenell responded on platform X, calling the role “the greatest honour of my life.” He praised Trump’s problem-solving approach, stating, “We have a lot of work to do. Let’s get started.”

During Trump’s first term, Grenell held key positions, including U.S. ambassador to Germany, special envoy for Serbia-Kosovo negotiations, and Acting Director of National Intelligence. Despite being a contender for Secretary of State, Trump chose Senator Marco Rubio for that role. Grenell was also considered for a Ukraine-focused special envoy position, but retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg was ultimately selected.

Grenell has advocated for a peace plan in Ukraine that maintained territorial integrity while allowing for autonomous regions under Russian influence. He has also argued against NATO expansion, aligning with Trump’s view that member states must first meet defence spending commitments.

Grenell’s latest appointment comes as Trump eyes direct talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and explores diplomatic moves regarding Venezuela. Trump previously labelled Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro a dictator but hinted at a “new beginning” for U.S.-Venezuela relations.

In Michigan, Grenell played a key role in securing Trump’s surprise win among Arab-American voters, traditionally a Democratic stronghold, by organising campaign events despite Trump’s controversial immigration bans.

Republican Senator Bill Hagerty praised Grenell’s appointment, stating on X that he would excel in handling “some of the world’s toughest challenges.”