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OpenAI hires Dan Driscoll, former US Army secretary who took part in Ukraine peace talks
OpenAI has appointed Dan Driscoll, a former US Army secretary, as senior counsellor for national security modernisation. The company says he will work with US allies to promote the responsible use of artificial intelligence, a role that links his government experience to OpenAI’s efforts to expand AI adoption internationally.
Driscoll became Army secretary after Donald Trump won the presidential election and was later named the administration’s special envoy for Ukraine. He presented Kyiv with a US peace plan in November 2025, joined trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi in February, and resigned in August; a report linked his departure to disagreements with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth.
In short
- OpenAI has hired former US Army secretary Dan Driscoll.
- He will work on responsible AI use with US allies.
- Driscoll previously took part in Ukraine peace talks.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Hiring Driscoll could help OpenAI understand national security needs and work more effectively with US allies on responsible AI use. His experience in government and Ukraine diplomacy may help bridge the gap between policymakers and technology developers as AI becomes more consequential for security.
The case against
Appointing a former senior official involved in sensitive diplomacy could raise concerns about whether a major AI company is drawing too closely on government networks and influence. His role may also prompt questions about how OpenAI will balance allied governments’ security priorities with independent oversight and responsible limits on AI use.
Explained simply
The US Army is part of the Department of Defense, and its civilian secretary oversees its organisation and resources. Dan Driscoll held that post in Donald Trump’s administration before taking on a role focused on Ukraine.
The war in Ukraine has involved repeated efforts to negotiate an end to the fighting. The US, Ukraine and Russia have taken part in diplomatic discussions, while differing over the terms of any settlement.
OpenAI is a company that develops artificial intelligence tools, including ChatGPT. Governments and their allies are considering how AI might be used in areas such as defence and public services, and what safeguards are needed.
AI Business Companies Culture Europe Russia-Ukraine War Software Technology World