Pentagon secretary Pete Hegseth warned in Brussels that the United States and its allies would hold Russia accountable for the costs of its aggression against Ukraine, saying preparations are underway.
Hegseth on Charging Russia with Aggression Costs
During a Brussels meeting of the Ukrainian Defense Contact Group hosted by the United Kingdom and Germany, Pentagon Secretary Pete Hegseth reiterated that the United States and its allies would take the necessary steps to charge Russia with the costs of its ongoing aggression against Ukraine.
“If we have to take that step, the U.S. Department of Defense is ready to carry out its part in the way only the United States can,” Hegseth said.
Greater Arms Spending for Ukraine
Hegseth also urged NATO members to boost weapons acquisitions for Ukraine. He explained that the program allows alliance countries to purchase equipment for the Ukrainian army in line with priorities determined by Kyiv.
“If we have learned anything under President Trump, it is the active use of peace through power,” Hegseth noted. “Peace is achieved by force, not by sharp words or finger‑pointing. It is earned through strong, tangible capabilities that command respect from adversaries.”
Kosiniak‑Kamysz in Brussels: U.S. Confirms Guarantees for Poland
Kosiniak‑Kamysz met with Hegseth in Brussels and reported that the United States reaffirmed its security guarantees for Poland, emphasizing that Poland already enjoys a stable U.S. troop presence.
“Poland invests heavily in armaments, maintains strong ties with the United States, and is a key economic partner that makes large purchases from American allies,” he said. “The country also demonstrates that its defense spending and modernization efforts are among the highest in the Alliance.”
