Julie Davis, the acting US ambassador to Ukraine, has stepped down from her post after less than a year in the job, the State Department confirmed. Her departure comes amid stalled US-brokered ceasefire efforts to end Russia's invasion.
Reports of Frustration with Trump
The Financial Times reported, citing unnamed sources, that Davis had grown frustrated with President Donald Trump over his lack of support for Ukraine. However, the State Department denied any such disagreements, stating that she is retiring.
Trump has been pressuring Kyiv to reach a peace deal with Russia, suggesting Ukraine could cede territory to secure an agreement. Ceasefire talks have largely stalled as Washington focuses on the Iran conflict.
State Department Denies Disagreements
State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said: "It is false to suggest Ambassador Davis is resigning over differences with Donald Trump. She will continue to proudly advance President Trump's policies until she officially departs Kyiv in June 2026 and retires from the department."
Davis, the top US embassy official, serves as charge d'affaires but is not a Senate-confirmed ambassador. She has also been serving as US ambassador to Cyprus since 2023, holding a dual role during her time in Kyiv.
Background and Predecessor
She was appointed by the Trump administration in May 2025 after her predecessor, career diplomat Bridget Brink, stepped down. Brink, appointed by former President Joe Biden and now running as a Democrat for Congress, expressed alarm over Trump's "appeasement" of Russia and pressure on Ukraine.
Since taking office in January 2025, Trump has repeatedly blamed Ukraine for Russia's invasion over four years ago and has had a tumultuous relationship with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
