US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth made significant statements on Wednesday regarding the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Hegseth emphasized that the war must come to an end, but also stated that the US will no longer prioritize European and Ukrainian security. Instead, the Trump administration aims to focus on securing the US borders and deterring conflict with China.
Hegseth expressed that it is unrealistic for Kyiv to join NATO and that European troops should take the lead in securing a post-war Ukraine, with the US not planning to deploy troops to the region. He also mentioned that a return to Ukraine's pre-2014 borders is an unattainable goal.
The US Secretary of Defense's remarks have raised concerns for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who emphasized the need for American leadership in providing security guarantees to Ukraine. Hegseth did not announce any new US aid to Ukraine, signaling a shift in US foreign policy priorities.
NATO and the European Union had anticipated a reduced US role in providing military aid to Ukraine, with NATO establishing its own security mechanism to assist the country. UK Defense Secretary John Healey acknowledged the concerns raised by the US's stance, while NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called for increased security assistance to Ukraine.
Hegseth's statements reflect the Trump administration's intention to disengage from European security matters and position the Ukraine conflict as a primarily European issue. This approach contrasts with the Biden administration's emphasis on the transatlantic alliance and support for Ukraine.
Furthermore, Hegseth echoed President Trump's call for allies to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP, highlighting the need for greater investment in defense. While reaffirming the US commitment to the NATO alliance and defense partnership with Europe, Hegseth emphasized the importance of a balanced relationship that discourages dependency.
