Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.) criticized Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s statement that returning Ukraine to its pre-2014 borders was “unrealistic,” warning against “rewarding the invader.” Bacon emphasized moral clarity, blaming Russia for the war and massive casualties.
Hegseth, speaking in Brussels ahead of a U.S.-led Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting, suggested the U.S. would push for negotiations in which Ukraine cedes territory. “Chasing this illusionary goal will only prolong the war and cause more suffering,” he said.
Hegseth also dismissed NATO membership for Ukraine as a likely outcome of a settlement. Critics argue these statements weaken Ukraine’s leverage as Trump’s team negotiates an end to the war. Trump, after speaking to both Putin and Zelensky, said peace efforts were ongoing.
Vice President Vance will meet Zelensky at the Munich Security Conference, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is in Ukraine discussing access to critical minerals.
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