US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is currently in Belgium for the NATO Defense Ministerial and the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) meeting. One of President Donald Trump's key priorities being conveyed at the meeting is the goal of ending the war in Ukraine.
There is growing concern among European and Kyiv leaders following President Trump's recent conciliatory tone towards Russian President Vladimir Putin. Hegseth, in his statements, has indicated a willingness to explore all options in negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, stating that 'everything is on the table.'
During a press conference, Hegseth hinted at a potential link between future aid for Ukraine's defense and their willingness to engage in negotiations with Russia. He mentioned that President Trump would decide on the appropriate incentives or deterrents to facilitate a lasting peace agreement.
The United States has expressed frustration over the disproportionate defense spending within NATO, with NATO head Mark Rutte acknowledging the disparity. While member countries have made progress in increasing defense spending in recent years, Rutte emphasized the need for further efforts to meet the target of 2% of countries' GDP.
