With a series of Western leaders visiting Kiev in recent weeks, the Biden administration is considering dispatching a top-level official to the Ukrainian capital, Politico reported on Wednesday. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have traveled as far as Poland, but have not visited Ukraine.
Among the names being considered are Secretary of State Tony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Politico reported, citing “two US officials.” The officials said that regardless of who is chosen, the trip likely won’t be announced in advance for security reasons.
Blinken visited Kiev in January, and has toured Europe extensively since Russia launched its military offensive on Ukraine in February, in a bid to rally the US’ NATO allies against Moscow. Austin also met with NATO allies prior to the outbreak of conflict, and on two separate trips to Europe since. Austin was joined by Blinken on his most recent trip in late March, during which the Polish government petitioned the two US officials to support direct intervention in Ukraine.