For the first time since the Ukraine Defense Contact Group was formed in 2022, the United States will not be represented by its defense secretary at the upcoming gathering. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will miss the high-level meeting in Brussels on Wednesday, raising fresh questions about America’s future commitment to Ukraine’s defense against Russia.
Hegseth, who recently returned from a security summit in Singapore, is not scheduled to arrive in Brussels until after the meeting concludes. A US official confirmed he will not participate even via video, marking a clear departure from previous engagement levels.
A Shift in US Leadership on Ukraine
The Ukraine Defense Contact Group was established by former Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The group includes more than 50 countries and has pledged around $126 billion in aid, with over $66.5 billion coming from the US.
Under Austin, the US led the group and participated actively in its monthly meetings. However, since Pete Hegseth took over as defense secretary under the Trump administration, the US has not announced any new military aid packages for Ukraine.
During earlier meetings this year, Hegseth indicated that Ukraine should abandon both its NATO membership ambitions and its efforts to reclaim all Russian-occupied territories. He also signaled President Donald Trump’s intention to reduce US involvement, encouraging Europe to take greater responsibility.
Rising Concerns Among NATO Allies
European allies, particularly France, have voiced concern about a potential US withdrawal from Europe in favor of focusing on the Indo-Pacific region. French President Emmanuel Macron warned last week that neglecting Ukraine could weaken US credibility in any future conflict involving China and Taiwan.
While Hegseth steps away, leadership of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group has been passed to Germany and the United Kingdom. General Christopher Cavoli, head of US European Command and NATO’s top commander, will attend the meeting in Hegseth’s place.
Ukrainian Delegation in Washington
As the Brussels meeting unfolds, a senior Ukrainian delegation is visiting Washington. Led by First Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, the group is discussing defense strategies, sanctions, and post-war recovery.
They are expected to meet with key US figures, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio. These talks aim to maintain US-Ukraine relations amid growing uncertainty about Washington’s long-term role in the war.
