In Brussels on February 12, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth addressed the issue of Ukraine's borders, stating that reverting to pre-2014 borders was not feasible and that NATO membership for Kyiv was not seen as a solution to the conflict sparked by Russia's invasion. At a NATO meeting in Brussels, Hegseth emphasized the U.S. administration's stance on the ongoing conflict, stating, "Returning to Ukraine’s pre-2014 borders is an unrealistic objective." He warned that pursuing this goal would only prolong the conflict and lead to further suffering.
Hegseth urged NATO allies to increase their role in European security, citing U.S. concerns about border security and threats from China. The comments represented a departure from the Biden administration's position and the stance of Ukraine's allies who had pledged unwavering support and emphasized territorial integrity.
Hegseth signaled that Kyiv might need to adjust its objectives, including regaining territory from Russia and seeking protection through NATO membership. While Trump administration officials had hinted at this stance previously, Hegseth’s statements made it unequivocal.
He stressed the importance of robust security guarantees for lasting peace but clarified that U.S. troops would not be stationed in Ukraine. Hegseth emphasized that NATO membership for Ukraine was not a feasible outcome and suggested that European and non-European forces should support security guarantees, operating outside the framework of NATO.
Russian actions in 2014, including the annexation of Crimea and support for separatists in eastern Ukraine, continue to impact the region, with Moscow currently controlling a significant portion of Ukrainian territory.