US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth declares Ukraine’s pre-2014 borders “unrealistic,” signaling a seismic shift in US policy on European security.
At a Glance
- US no longer primarily focused on European security, shifts to homeland defense and China deterrence
- Europe urged to lead Ukraine’s defense and increase NATO defense spending to 5% of GDP
- Restoring Ukraine’s pre-2014 borders and NATO membership deemed unrealistic
- US to reduce military aid to Ukraine, expects Europe to contribute more
US Shifts Focus Away from European Security
In a groundbreaking policy shift, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the United States is no longer primarily focused on European security. Speaking at a meeting in Brussels, Hegseth outlined a new direction for US foreign policy that emphasizes homeland defense and deterring China over European affairs. This pivot marks a significant change in America’s longstanding role as the primary guardian of European security.
The defense secretary’s statements reflect the Trump administration’s America First approach, which seeks to recalibrate US commitments abroad. Hegseth stressed that European nations must take the lead in defending Ukraine and providing military aid to Kyiv. This new stance puts pressure on NATO allies to significantly increase their defense spending and take on a more substantial role in regional security.
Realistic Goals for Ukraine
In a stark departure from previous US policy, Hegseth declared that restoring Ukraine’s pre-2014 borders is an unrealistic objective. This assessment signals a potential shift in the international community’s approach to the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Hegseth argued that pursuing this “illusory goal” would only prolong the war and increase suffering.
“We must start by recognising that returning to Ukraine’s pre-2014 borders is an unrealistic objective” – Pete Hegseth
This reassessment of goals for Ukraine extends to its potential NATO membership. Hegseth ruled out NATO membership for Ukraine, suggesting that peace should be secured by European and non-European troops, explicitly excluding US forces. This stance aligns with the administration’s broader strategy of reducing American military commitments abroad while encouraging allies to shoulder more responsibility.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth -during a press moment in Germany- said that the US does not plan to send troops to Ukraine. He emphasized that President Trump is counting on a quick peace agreement regarding Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/BhTPyNXrHT
— NOELREPORTS 🇪🇺 🇺🇦 (@NOELreports) February 11, 2025
Increased European Defense Spending
A key component of the new US policy is the call for European NATO members to dramatically increase their defense budgets. Hegseth urged allies to raise spending to 5% of GDP, a significant jump from the current 2% target. This ambitious goal reflects the administration’s view that European nations must invest more heavily in their own security infrastructure.
While some NATO members have expressed resistance to this proposed benchmark, Hegseth emphasized the necessity of increased spending to counter Russia’s military capabilities. The defense secretary pointed out that Russia’s military spending constitutes about 40% of its budget, enabling it to outpace NATO in ammunition production. This disparity underscores the urgency of Hegseth’s call for greater European investment in defense.
