Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomes envoys of US President Donald Trump Steve Witkoff, center left, Jared Kushner, second right, and Josh Grunebaum, head of federal takeover (AP Photo)
According to Politico, Josh Gruenbaum, a former advisor to Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, will no longer work with them on major foreign policy issues related to Russia, Ukraine, or Iran.Grünbaum will now focus solely on issues related to the Gaza Strip through an organization called the Peace Council. The group is described as an international body intended to operate independently of the US government, although it includes links to the administration.According to sources, Grünbaum’s foreign policy responsibilities have been reduced and he will now work exclusively on Gaza-related efforts through the Peace Council.
The organization is set up to operate separately, although Donald Trump serves as its president and senior US officials form part of its leadership.A White House spokesman said Gruenbaum “will continue to advance the President’s agenda to advance global stability” in his new position.Gruenbaum, a former Wall Street executive, has seen a rapid rise within the Trump administration. In January 2025, he was appointed to lead the major procurement unit at the General Services Administration and later became closely associated with Kushner and Witkoff.
He initially worked with them on the Gaza ceasefire agreement that was finalized in October 2025, helping to expand his role to include broader and more sensitive foreign policy matters.His influence reached its peak earlier this year when he participated in a high-level meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin.
Internal concerns and role shift
However, officials said Grunebaum no longer has the support of many senior advisers within the administration.
Concerns have been raised about his working style and approach to internal communications.Although Kushner and Witkoff maintained their support, they did not oppose the decision to reduce his responsibilities.
A new position is seen as a step backwards
Grunebaum will continue to advise on Gaza-related matters, but will do so from outside the White House. He also serves as a senior advisor to the General Services Administration.According to the sources, the new role is seen as distancing him from the main centers of power in Washington.
He reportedly sought a more formal position within the White House.A Peace Council spokesman said that Grünbaum remains an important part of efforts to promote stability and development in the Middle East.
Background and previous work
Gruenbaum was part of a group of officials linked to businessman Elon Musk who were brought into the administration to help reform federal procurement systems. These efforts slowed after Musk stepped down from his role in Washington.His career in government drew attention earlier this year for his rapid transition from a technical administrative role to engagement in high-level international diplomacy.While his responsibilities have now been reduced, Grünebaum is expected to remain involved in Gaza-related initiatives through the Peace Council.
