Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth addressed NATO allies at the organization’s headquarters in Brussels on Wednesday, advocating for an immediate end to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as it nears its third anniversary. Speaking at a meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, Hegseth emphasized that the bloodshed must cease and outlined the framework for future U.S. military involvement in any potential peace deal.
Hegseth reiterated President Trump’s commitment to achieving peace through diplomatic means, stressing that both Russia and Ukraine need to come to the negotiating table. He highlighted the necessity of a realistic approach to the battlefield situation, suggesting that a return to Ukraine’s borders prior to Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 is an unrealistic goal that could prolong the conflict.
The Secretary of Defense made it clear that NATO membership for Ukraine is not a feasible outcome of negotiations, and any security guarantees must involve capable troops from both European and non-European nations. He stated that if peacekeeping troops were to be deployed in Ukraine, they should not be part of a NATO mission and should not invoke Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty, which obligates member states to collective defense.
Hegseth called for robust international oversight along the line of contact in Ukraine and confirmed that no U.S. troops would be sent to the country under any security guarantee. To encourage Russia to engage in negotiations, he mentioned that President Trump plans to drive down energy prices that have been funding the Russian military efforts, thereby leveraging American energy production and urging other nations to follow suit.
The Defense Secretary also stressed the importance of European allies taking a more significant role in providing military aid to Ukraine, advocating for increased contributions in terms of both lethal and nonlethal support. He urged NATO members to allocate 5 percent of their GDP to defense, surpassing the current 2 percent guideline, emphasizing that this investment is essential for their future security.
Hegseth underscored that the U.S. could no longer serve as the primary security guarantor in Europe, as it shifts its focus toward addressing threats from China. He called on European nations to take the lead in their defense responsibilities, while reaffirming the U.S. commitment to NATO and its partnerships in Europe.
In conclusion, Hegseth expressed a desire for continued collaboration among allies to achieve stability and peace, framing the U.S. approach as one that prioritizes honesty and empowerment in international relations.