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”:
People were interested in these podcasts
- 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
This article was constructed with the assistance of artificial intelligence and published by a member of The Washington Times' AI News Desk team. The contents of this report are based solely on The Washington Times' original reporting, wire services, and/or other sources cited within the report. For more information, please read our AI policy or contact Steve Fink, Director of Artificial Intelligence, at sfink@washingtontimes.com
The Washington Times AI Ethics Newsroom Committee can be reached at aispotlight@washingtontimes.com.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.