In a major policy shift under the Trump administration, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told Ukrainian leaders and allied defense officials that Ukraine’s goal of reclaiming all pre-2014 territory and joining NATO is unrealistic. Speaking at the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in Brussels, Hegseth urged Ukraine to focus on achievable diplomatic solutions rather than prolonging a costly and devastating conflict.
Hegseth’s remarks mark a clear departure from the Biden-era policy of pushing for Ukraine’s full territorial restoration and NATO integration at any cost. Instead, he emphasized that endless fighting will not change the realities on the ground and that it is time for Ukraine and its allies to adjust their expectations.
“The United States supports a strong, independent Ukraine, but there must be a realistic approach to ending this war,” Hegseth said. “Continuing to chase objectives that cannot be achieved militarily only leads to more unnecessary suffering.”
He also stated that a durable peace must be backed by strong security guarantees, with European and non-NATO forces playing a lead role in any long-term stabilization efforts—without direct U.S. military involvement.
The Trump administration has been clear in its stance that European nations must take greater responsibility for their own security. Hegseth reiterated this point by calling for European allies to increase defense spending to at least five percent of GDP, ensuring that they can shoulder more of the burden in future conflicts.
This position has frustrated Ukrainian officials, who insist that reclaiming their lost territory remains possible with continued military aid and sanctions against Russia. However, with U.S. policy shifting away from an open-ended commitment, Ukraine may be forced to reconsider its strategy.
The administration’s approach reflects Trump’s broader vision of prioritizing America’s interests and avoiding drawn-out foreign conflicts. As negotiations continue, the message from Washington is clear—Ukraine must adapt to a new reality and focus on practical outcomes rather than unattainable goals.