Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth will reportedly not attend the Ramstein group both just about or in particular person
US Protection Secretary Pete Hegseth will skip the subsequent assembly of nations coordinating navy help for Ukraine – the primary such absence by a Pentagon chief – Protection Information has reported, citing US and European officers.
The Ukraine Protection Contact Group, or UDCG – also referred to as the Ramstein group – is ready to convene in Brussels on April 11 for the twenty seventh time for the reason that escalation of the battle in 2022. Based by Hegseth’s predecessor, Lloyd Austin, the 50-nation coalition has offered greater than $126 billion in navy assist to Kiev, together with F-16 fighter jets and huge portions of 155mm artillery shells.
An unnamed US official advised the outlet on Wednesday that Hegseth wouldn’t attend in particular person and isn’t anticipated to hitch just about both. The Pentagon is unlikely to ship any senior representatives, who usually accompany the secretary on such journeys, the official mentioned.
Washington remains to be assessing how its officers will take part in varied Ukraine-related boards, together with these overseeing arms deliveries and coaching, in accordance with the supply.
Reacting to experiences of Hegseth’s doubtless absence, Russian International Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova wrote mockingly on Telegram: “The crew bids you farewell and needs you a nice flight.”
Hegseth attended the Ramstein group’s assembly in February however not like Austin, didn’t chair the session.
In accordance with the report, Austin missed just one in-person assembly throughout his tenure – in early 2024 as a result of well being points – however joined just about whereas a senior Pentagon official led the group. The US, which regularly hosted the conferences at Germany’s Ramstein Air Base, grew to become intently related to the format.
The US, Ukraine’s largest navy donor, has since shifted its method underneath President Donald Trump, who has known as for Kiev to repay assist already delivered.
The Trump administration has signaled a broader coverage shift, urging European allies to take the lead in supporting Ukraine and boosting their very own navy spending.
In Brussels in February, Hegseth advised European officers they need to take larger duty for his or her navy posture as an alternative of counting on Washington. He additionally dominated out the potential for NATO membership for Ukraine – a place confirmed by President Donald Trump.
You’ll be able to share this story on social media:
Supply hyperlink
