U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, addressing NATO defense ministers in Brussels, emphasized the need for European nations to enhance their involvement in Ukraine and peacekeeping efforts. He deemed the return of Ukraine to its pre-2014 borders and NATO membership unrealistic. Hegseth urged Europe to take lead roles in security guarantees and military support, while also highlighting Trump’s expectations for increased defense budgets across NATO. European countries showed willingness to contribute, but concerns remain about their influence in future peace negotiations.
Defense Secretary Hegseth’s Stance on NATO and Ukraine
On Wednesday in Brussels, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth delivered a clear message regarding Donald Trump’s expectations for NATO and Ukraine, urging European nations to step up their engagement efforts.
In a speech characterized by a firm tone, Hegseth dismissed the idea of Ukraine reverting to its pre-2014 borders, including Crimea, as ‘unrealistic.’ He also stated that membership in NATO for Ukraine following peace talks is similarly ‘not realistic,’ highlighting the challenges that lie ahead.
Call for European Commitment and Peacekeeping Solutions
Hegseth reminded the gathered NATO defense ministers and Ukrainian Defense Minister Roustem Oumerov of the new administration’s desire for peace in Ukraine and a cessation of the ongoing violence. However, he emphasized the necessity for European nations to take a more proactive role, both on the ground and financially.
According to Hegseth, it is not feasible for the United States to deploy troops in Ukraine as part of any peace agreement. Instead, it will be the responsibility of European countries and other nations to establish the ‘robust’ security guarantees required to ensure ‘lasting’ peace in the region. He specified that any peacekeeping forces deployed must operate under a mission that is separate from NATO and not invoke Article 5 of the Alliance, which obligates members to defend each other in case of an attack.
Looking forward, Hegseth called for European nations to shoulder the majority of civilian and military assistance to Ukraine. He also mentioned the U.S. commitment to help reduce energy prices, a vital resource for Russia, to encourage negotiations.
As the meeting progressed, Hegseth set the tone for stronger NATO involvement, stating, ‘NATO must be stronger (…) not a club of diplomats.’ European nations expressed their hopes for clearer signals about the U.S. commitment to Europe and the conditions necessary for achieving durable peace, and they received some assurances.
British Defense Minister John Healey, who led the discussions, acknowledged the Secretary’s message, affirming, ‘Secretary Hegseth, we hear you.’
Concerns linger among European nations that a potential peace deal between Ukraine and Russia, which Trump aims to facilitate quickly, might unfold without their input, compromising Kyiv’s interests. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the need to ensure Ukraine is well-positioned for future negotiations.
In terms of European involvement, some countries, including France and the UK, are prepared to contribute, potentially sending troops to support a peace agreement, according to a NATO diplomat. The initial meeting allowed both European and American representatives to assess each other’s readiness to collaborate further, leading to an upcoming visit from U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance to Munich for discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
In addition to addressing military spending responsibilities within NATO, Hegseth pointed out Trump’s significant expectations for European allies to increase their defense budgets. The new president has called for NATO countries to allocate 5% of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) towards military expenses, while currently only 23 member nations meet the 2% threshold.
While most European nations recognize the need for increased military spending, many, with the exception of Poland, view Trump’s demands as overly ambitious. Rutte reiterated the necessity for higher expenditures, likely exceeding ‘3%,’ though he did not provide a specific figure during the discussions.