German Defense Minister Labels Trump's Alleged Concessions on Ukraine, NATO, and Territory as Mistakes

Germany's Defense Minister criticized U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to remove Ukrainian NATO membership and territorial concessions as bargaining chips before possible peace talks. The minister stated that Putin had not shifted his stance and described Trump's move as "clumsy" and a mistake. He emphasized the need for Europe's involvement in negotiating any Ukraine-Russia peace deal and highlighted the necessity for U.S. support in the near future. Addressing defense spending, he stressed the importance of reforming EU debt criteria to allow NATO members to boost military expenditure, as per Trump's request for higher defense spending. The minister also acknowledged the U.S.'s desire to shift its security focus and reduce spending on European defense, advocating for a structured transition plan. Additionally, he mentioned the need for a gradual approach, a sentiment echoed by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Hegseth's initial stance on Ukraine's borders and NATO membership was met with criticism for potentially weakening the U.S.'s negotiation position with Russia. However, he later stated that "everything is on the table" for negotiations, highlighting Trump's authority in deciding concessions. Lastly, a senior U.S. official contradicted earlier statements by suggesting potential NATO membership for Ukraine or a return to pre-2014 borders.