U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth dismissed criticism of President Donald Trump’s decision to pause military aid to Ukraine as “all garbage,” even as he acknowledged that the policy might appear “pro-Russia” to some.
Hegseth addressed the issue during a meeting with British Defense Secretary John Healey on Thursday, where he was pressed about the administration’s stance on Ukraine aid. “We are watching, obviously, very closely the front line of troops,” Hegseth said. “But ultimately, we’re interested in creating the conditions for peace.”
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Responding to a question from The Washington Post, Hegseth suggested that the media was pushing misleading narratives about the administration’s position. “To the previous question from The Washington Post, the press is interested in narratives,” he said. “Our president is interested in peace. So we will get characterized one way or another—oh, your stance is pro-Russia… It’s all garbage.”
Hegseth firmly defended Trump’s approach, arguing that the president was carrying out his election promise to de-escalate global conflicts. “He is working with both sides in a way that only President Trump can,” Hegseth remarked. “Only President Trump can bring them to the table to end the killing.”
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The pause in Ukraine aid has sparked criticism from both U.S. lawmakers and international allies, who argue that withholding military support could embolden Russian aggression. However, Trump and his administration have framed the decision as part of a broader diplomatic strategy to negotiate peace rather than prolong the conflict.
As geopolitical tensions continue to rise, Trump’s handling of Ukraine policy remains a divisive issue, with concerns from European allies about the long-term impact of reduced U.S. military assistance. Whether the administration’s approach will lead to diplomatic breakthroughs or further instability remains to be seen.
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