Who is Trump's 'drone guy' Dan Driscoll, taking key role in Ukraine talks?

November 25, 2025

Dan Driscoll, a 39-year-old Army Secretary with no prior diplomatic experience, has emerged as a key figure in Trump administration peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. His rapid ascent stems from his close relationship with Vice President JD Vance, whom he befriended at Yale Law School after both served in the military. Following the leak of a controversial 28-point peace plan last week, Driscoll led high-level meetings in Ukraine, Geneva, and Abu Dhabi, working alongside senior officials to refine a peace framework.

Who is affected

Dan Driscoll (Army Secretary taking on expanded diplomatic role)
President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance
Ukrainian President Zelensky and Ukrainian government officials
Russian government officials
European allies of Ukraine
Pete Hegseth (Defense Secretary whose position Driscoll might potentially fill)
Keith Kellogg (special envoy to Ukraine leaving in January)
Steve Witkoff (Trump's special envoy working on ceasefire)
Marco Rubio (Secretary of State) and Jared Kushner
U.S. Army troops under Driscoll's command

What action is being taken

Driscoll is participating in ongoing discussions with Ukrainian officials in Geneva
He is helping draw up an "updated and refined peace framework"
He is holding talks with Russian officials in Abu Dhabi
Driscoll is serving as acting director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
He continues to lead the U.S. Army as Secretary

Why it matters

This matters because a relatively inexperienced diplomat with no background in Russian-Ukrainian affairs has become central to negotiations ending a major European conflict. Driscoll's involvement represents a shift in the Trump administration's approach to the peace process, particularly after Ukraine and its allies expressed concerns about the leaked 28-point plan. His rapid elevation demonstrates how personal relationships within the Trump administration can lead to significant policy roles, and his potential future positions could substantially influence U.S. military policy and international diplomacy. Additionally, his vision of technology-driven warfare—emphasizing drones and artificial intelligence over traditional combat—could fundamentally reshape the U.S. Army's approach to future conflicts.

What's next

Keith Kellogg will leave his position as special envoy to Ukraine in January, potentially opening a role for Driscoll
There is possibility that Driscoll could replace Pete Hegseth as Defense Secretary if Hegseth steps down
Driscoll may continue implementing his vision of transforming the Army with drone technology and artificial intelligence

Read full article from source: BBC