During a significant NATO meeting in Brussels, the U.S. Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, addressed the complexities of the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict. He described the aim of returning to Ukraine’s pre-2014 borders as an “unrealistic objective” and an “illusionary goal” for any prospective peace settlement that President Trump hopes to achieve.
In his inaugural meeting with NATO and Ukrainian defense ministers, Mr. Hegseth emphasized that President Trump is determined to resolve the conflict through diplomatic efforts, urging both Russia and Ukraine to engage in dialogue. He warned that Ukraine’s pursuit to reclaim all territories lost since 2014 could potentially extend the war and escalate human suffering.
“We will only end this devastating war and establish a durable peace by coupling allied strength with a realistic assessment of the battlefield,” Mr. Hegseth emphasized. His remarks highlight the need for a pragmatic approach to peace, combining military strategy with diplomatic solutions.
Mr. Hegseth also conveyed President Trump’s expectations for Europe to increase its financial and military contributions to Ukraine’s defense. He called for European nations to take greater responsibility for their conventional defense, advocating for an increase in military spending, potentially reaching up to 5% of national output.
This call to action comes as the United States balances its own security challenges, particularly with the growing influence of China. The emphasis on shared responsibility underscores the importance of a united front in addressing global security threats.
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