Hegseth tries to explain why US is 'abandoning' Ukraine
Photo: US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth (Getty Images)
The United States wants Europe to take on the financing of the war in Ukraine, as the threat is much closer to the continent. In addition, European countries are "rich" and have a combined GDP of $20 trillion, stated US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during a House of Representatives hearing.
The Pentagon chief was asked why the United States is "abandoning" Ukraine.
"They are rich countries worth $20 trillion versus an economy of $2 trillion. Europe can step up, and they have through our PURL initiative and European command," Hegseth said.
According to Hegseth, "the American people want to see" other countries step up and fund the war in Ukraine.
"If that is that important to Europe, which I understand why it is, and the incursion of Russia and the bravery of the Ukrainians, then European countries should pay for it," the US Defense Secretary emphasized.
KING: Why are we abandoning Ukraine?
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) April 30, 2026
HEGSETH: We want Europe stepping up and shouldering the burden. That's exactly what the American people want to see pic.twitter.com/46FVpJwDzl
In response, Senator Angus King asked Hegseth whether he meant that the US doesn't have "any interest in what happens in Ukraine" and that it concerns only Europeans.
"I’m saying the threat is far closer to rich and capable countries in Europe, and they should step up to lead the charge; and that is why that chart is a good thing to see," Hegseth said.
Hegseth announced the allocation of a $400 million military aid package for Ukraine. The funds were unlocked after prolonged pressure from US lawmakers.
Before the US Defense Secretary confirmed the funding, Republican Senator Mitch McConnell stated that the US Department of Defense had been delaying military assistance to Ukraine.
