In a candid and colorful interview, Retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, who served as President Trump’s special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, shed light on the recent pause in U.S. intelligence sharing with Ukraine. Kellogg, a seasoned diplomat and military leader, likened the pause to a drastic measure, saying it was akin to “hitting a mule with a two-by-four” across the nose.

The pause in intelligence sharing has raised eyebrows in diplomatic circles, with many questioning the motivations behind the move. However, according to Kellogg, the Ukrainians themselves are to blame for the sudden halt. He claimed that Ukraine’s actions, or lack thereof, necessitated the pause, although he did not specify what exactly prompted the decision.

Kellogg’s comments have sparked debate about the state of U.S.-Ukraine relations, which have been under scrutiny since the Trump administration’s dealings with Ukraine came under fire. Critics argue that the pause in intelligence sharing undermines Ukraine’s ability to counter Russian aggression, while supporters see it as a necessary measure to ensure U.S. interests are protected.

The retired lieutenant general’s comparison to “hitting a mule with a two-by-four” has also raised eyebrows, with some interpreting it as a sign of frustration and exasperation with Ukraine’s leadership. Others see it as a folksy, if not somewhat unorthodox, way of describing a complex diplomatic situation.

Regardless of interpretation, Kellogg’s comments have brought attention to the delicate balance of power in Eastern Europe, where the United States, Ukraine, and Russia are engaged in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. As tensions continue to simmer, diplomats and policymakers will be watching the situation closely, eager to see how the pause in intelligence sharing affects the region’s fragile stability.