Inside Trump’s Ukraine gambit: Pentagon chief explains the ‘realistic’ path to peace

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is defending the Trump administration’s dramatic new approach to ending the Russia-Ukraine war, including the controversial position that Ukraine must cede territory for peace. Here’s what you need to know about the emerging U.S. strategy:

Hegseth’s stance

The Pentagon chief delivered a blunt message in Brussels, saying pre-2014 borders are “unrealistic”:

• Called pursuing full restoration an “illusory goal”
• Said it would only “prolong the war”
• Emphasized need for “realistic assessment”
• Rejected NATO membership for Ukraine

Trump’s diplomatic push

The defense secretary’s comments align with Trump’s dramatic initiative:

• 90-minute conversation with Putin
• Follow-up call with Zelenskyy
• Plans for in-person Trump-Putin meeting
• Focus on rapid peace negotiations

European reaction

NATO allies strongly oppose the new U.S. approach:

• Claims of “betrayal” from European officials
• NATO chief insisting on “durable” peace
• EU policy head calling it “appeasement”
• Demands for seat at negotiations

New U.S. priorities

Hegseth outlined major policy shifts:

• No U.S. peacekeepers for Ukraine
• Europe must lead future aid efforts
• Focus shifting to China and border security
• “Division of labor” between U.S. and Europe

Russian response

The Kremlin has moved quickly:

• Confirmed Putin-Trump call
• Assembling negotiation team
• Celebrating end of isolation
• Avoiding territory discussions

Read more:

• Hegseth stands by comments that Ukraine must give up land for peace

• Trump speaks with Putin, Zelenskyy, plans immediate talks on ending war

• Hegseth calls for end to Russia-Ukraine war, says U.S. won’t provide troops