Opening Remarks by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth at Ukraine Defense Contact Group (As Delivered)
February 12, 2025
Brussels, Belgium
Distinguished Ministers and Chiefs of Defense,
Today, we gather once more with a solemn purpose: to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the defense of Ukraine and its people.
As this conflict enters its second year, the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people have been a beacon of hope amidst the darkness. They have faced unimaginable horrors with indomitable spirit, inspiring us all.
However, the challenges they face remain immense. Russia’s relentless assault continues unabated, inflicting unspeakable suffering on civilians and wreaking havoc on the country’s infrastructure.
We cannot and will not stand idly by as these atrocities unfold. Together, we must continue to provide Ukraine with the resources it needs to defend itself and restore its territorial integrity.
In that vein, I am proud to announce that the United States will be providing an additional $2 billion in security assistance to Ukraine. This package includes critical weapons systems, ammunition, and equipment that will bolster Ukraine’s defenses and enable them to repel Russian aggression.
Furthermore, we are working closely with our allies and partners to coordinate a comprehensive defense package for Ukraine. We must ensure that Ukraine has the capability to not only survive this war but also to rebuild and thrive in its aftermath.
Beyond military assistance, we must also provide humanitarian aid to the millions of Ukrainians who have been displaced or otherwise affected by the conflict. The suffering they have endured is immense, and we must do everything in our power to alleviate their hardships.
Ladies and gentlemen,
The defense of Ukraine is not merely a regional issue; it is a global imperative. If Russia is allowed to succeed in its imperial ambitions, it will embolden other aggressors and undermine the stability of the international order we have worked so hard to build.
Therefore, it is incumbent upon us all to stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine and to provide the support it needs to ensure its victory.
I want to commend the members of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group for their unwavering support and commitment. Together, we have made a tangible difference in the course of this conflict.
But our work is not yet done. We must remain steadfast in our resolve until Ukraine emerges victorious and its sovereignty is fully restored.
Thank you.
Opening Remarks by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth at Ukraine Defense Contact Group (As Delivered)
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