Ric Grenell to serve as Trump’s Presidential Envoy for Special Missions

Trump made the announcement on Truth Social, highlighting Grenell's extensive diplomatic experience and outlining his new role. The president-elect said that Grenell will work in some of the “hottest spots around the world,” such as Venezuela and North Korea.

“In my First Term, Ric was the United States Ambassador to Germany, Acting Director of National Intelligence, and Presidential Envoy for Kosovo-Serbia Negotiations,” Trump said. “Previously, he spent eight years inside the United Nations Security Council, working with North Korea, and developments in numerous other Countries. Ric has a B.A. from Evangel College and an M.P.A from Harvard. Ric will continue to fight for Peace through Strength, and always put AMERICA FIRST.”

Grenell made history during Trump’s first term as the first openly gay man to hold a cabinet-level position after being appointed Acting Director of National Intelligence in 2020. He also served as a special envoy for peace negotiations between Serbia and Kosovo before stepping down from the role.

Following his government service, Grenell worked as a senior advisor to the Republican National Committee, focusing on outreach to LGBT voters. He remained a close ally of Trump after his first term ended, advising him on foreign policy matters.

In September, Grenell joined Trump during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Grenell has been outspoken about a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia, advocating for an agreement that would allow Ukraine to preserve its territory while also allowing Russia to remain in control of “autonomous regions,” according to NPR. Grenell has also expressed opposition to Ukraine joining NATO.