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Sunday 22/02/2026

Dan Driscoll's Surprising Role in Trump Administration's Ukraine Peace Efforts

US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll at a table with Ukraine map
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Dan Driscoll, US Army Secretary, has emerged as a key figure in the Trump administration's Ukraine peace talks, despite limited diplomatic experience.
  • Driscoll's close ties to Vice President JD Vance have positioned him at the forefront of the US's latest efforts to negotiate a ceasefire.
  • A leaked 28-point peace plan, developed by US and Russian officials, has sparked concern among Ukraine and its European allies.
  • The peace proposal, supported by Vance, aims to respect Ukrainian sovereignty but has faced criticism for aligning with Russian demands.
  • Driscoll's involvement underscores the influence of Vance and other top Trump advisers in shaping US foreign policy.

In a surprising turn of events, Dan Driscoll, the youngest-ever US Army Secretary, has taken a central role in the Trump administration's efforts to negotiate peace in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Known primarily for his expertise in military technology and logistics, Driscoll's sudden involvement in international diplomacy has raised eyebrows, given his limited experience in the field.

Driscoll's Rise and Ties to Vance

Driscoll's ascent within the Trump administration can be attributed to his close relationship with Vice President JD Vance, a key figure in the administration's foreign policy decisions. Both Yale alumni, Driscoll and Vance share a long-standing friendship that has propelled Driscoll into the political spotlight. Vance's influence is evident in Driscoll's appointment as a negotiator in the Ukraine peace talks, despite his lack of prior diplomatic engagements.

The Controversial Peace Plan

The peace negotiations took a contentious turn with the leak of a 28-point plan, reportedly crafted by US and Russian officials. The proposal, which aims to establish a ceasefire while respecting Ukrainian sovereignty, has been met with skepticism by Ukraine and its European allies. Critics argue that the plan aligns too closely with Russian demands, a point of contention that Driscoll and Vance have had to navigate delicately.

Vance's Influence and the Path Forward

Vice President Vance has been a vocal advocate for the peace plan, emphasizing the need for a realistic approach to ending the conflict. "Peace won't be made by failed diplomats or politicians living in a fantasy land," Vance stated, underscoring his belief in pragmatic solutions. Driscoll's involvement in the negotiations highlights the significant role Vance and other top Trump advisers play in shaping US foreign policy, particularly in the context of US-Russia relations.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

As the peace talks progress, the Trump administration faces the challenge of balancing diplomatic efforts with the concerns of Ukraine and its allies. The leaked peace plan's reception could influence future negotiations, potentially requiring revisions to address the criticisms it has faced. Driscoll's role as a negotiator may evolve, especially if the administration seeks to bolster its diplomatic credentials. The outcome of these talks could have lasting implications for US-Russia relations and the broader geopolitical landscape, with experts closely monitoring the administration's next moves.