Hegset commented on the end of the war in Ukraine: what Zelensky should not count on.

USA: Ukraine's return to 2014 borders is unrealistic

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegset stated that Ukraine's return to the 2014 borders is an unrealistic goal. He also noted that the U.S. cannot focus solely on European security due to other strategic challenges.

President Trump has clearly told the American people and many of your leaders that ending hostilities and achieving lasting peace is a top priority

Hegset emphasized that Trump plans to end the war through diplomatic negotiations, involving both Russia and Ukraine. However, he acknowledged that returning to the 2014 borders is unrealistic and could prolong the war.

The minister stressed that peace in Ukraine must ensure reliable security guarantees. However, the U.S. does not consider Ukraine's NATO membership a realistic outcome of peace talks.

Any security guarantees must be supported by capable European and non-European forces.

Hegset noted that the U.S. aims to become an effective counter to China's influence in the Pacific region. Therefore, the United States will focus on protecting its borders and countering the Chinese threat.

The U.S. prioritizes deterring war with China in the Pacific, acknowledging the reality of resource constraints and making decisions about their allocation.