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John Francis TefftNew US Ambassador to Ukraine
Country:
 USA |
Content:
- John Tefft: A Diplomatic Career Focused on the Post-Soviet Space
- Early Life and Education
- Diplomatic Career
- Ambassadorial Roles
- Ambassador to Georgia (2005-2009)
- Ambassador to Ukraine (2009-2013)
- Ambassador to Russia (2014-2017)
- Family
John Tefft: A Diplomatic Career Focused on the Post-Soviet Space
John Tefft, an American diplomat, has dedicated his career to shaping the foreign policy of the United States in the post-Soviet space. His extensive experience in the region, coupled with his exceptional language skills and diplomatic acumen, has made him a key player in international relations.
Early Life and Education
Born in Madison, Wisconsin in 1949, Tefft earned a Bachelor's degree from Marquette University and a Master's degree from Georgetown University. In 1972, he joined the Foreign Service and began his diplomatic career.
Diplomatic Career
Tefft's diplomatic assignments included service in Hungary and Israel. From 1986 to 1989, he served as Military and Political Counselor at the American Embassy in Rome. During this period, relations between the US and Italy were strained due to the "Gladio" terrorist network, which some allege was coordinated by the CIA. It is believed that Tefft may have played a role in directing the network.
From 1989 to 1992, Tefft held the position of Deputy Director for the Soviet Union (later Russia and the CIS) at the US State Department, focusing on military affairs. His work in this realm earned him the State Department's Gold Medal in 1992.
Ambassadorial Roles
Ambassador to Lithuania (2000-2003)Tefft served as the US Ambassador to Lithuania from 2000 to 2003. During his tenure, he oversaw Lithuania's accession to the EU and NATO.
Ambassador to Georgia (2005-2009)
From 2005 to 2009, Tefft was the US Ambassador to Georgia. He played a significant role in the country's relations with Russia and received high praise from then Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili.
Ambassador to Ukraine (2009-2013)
In 2009, Tefft was appointed as the US Ambassador to Ukraine. He focused on promoting Ukraine's integration into NATO and reducing Russian influence in the country. Tefft also provided substantial support to gay rights and same-sex marriage movements in Ukraine.
Ambassador to Russia (2014-2017)
President Barack Obama nominated Tefft as the US Ambassador to Russia in 2014. Despite his reputation as a tough negotiator and expert in "color revolutions," Tefft received approval from the Russian Foreign Ministry. He served as Ambassador until 2017, strengthening diplomatic relations between the two countries.
