Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is defending the Trump administration’s dramatic new approach to ending the Russia-Ukraine war, including the controversial position that Ukraine must cede territory for peace. Here’s what you need to know about the emerging U.S. strategy:

Hegseth’s stance

The Pentagon chief delivered a blunt message in Brussels, saying pre-2014 borders are “unrealistic”:

Trump’s diplomatic push

The defense secretary’s comments align with Trump’s dramatic initiative:

European reaction

NATO allies strongly oppose the new U.S. approach:

New U.S. priorities

Hegseth outlined major policy shifts:

Russian response

The Kremlin has moved quickly:

Read more:

• Hegseth stands by comments that Ukraine must give up land for peace

• Trump speaks with Putin, Zelenskyy, plans immediate talks on ending war

• Hegseth calls for end to Russia-Ukraine war, says U.S. won’t provide troops

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