Trump’s defense nominee grilled in Senate after dodging Ukraine questions at confirmation hearing

Pete Hegseth, Fox News host and Trump’s pick for Secretary of Defense, has been a controversial choice from the start. With no experience leading a major organization, his nomination raised eyebrows among Pentagon officials. Past allegations of sexual misconduct and his outspoken criticism of diversity in the military have further fueled concerns.

Protesters interrupted his opening remarks three times before being removed by security.

As Hegseth faced Senate confirmation hearings, his failure to mention Ukraine only added to the scrutiny surrounding his appointment.

Senator Angus King of Maine expressed concern that Hegseth had failed to mention Ukraine or Russia even once.

"Is this a sign that we are about to abandon Ukraine?" King asked.

Hegseth responded that this was a "presidential-level political decision" and that Trump "has made it very clear he wants to bring this conflict to an end."

"We know who the aggressor is. We know who the good guy is. We want this to end in a way that benefits Ukraine. But this war must end," the Pentagon nominee added.

In a written questionnaire submitted to the Senate Armed Services Committee ahead of the hearing, Hegseth suggested that the U.S. should deter Russia from acting against American interests. However, he failed to answer whether the U.S. should continue providing military aid to Ukraine.

"If confirmed, I will ensure that the Defense Department plays a key role in intergovernmental efforts to support the president’s special representative on Ukraine and Russia," he wrote.

Senator Tammy Duckworth, a combat veteran, criticized Hegseth for his lack of experience and inadequate answers to several questions.

When asked about the Asia-Pacific region and which countries are part of ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations), Hegseth listed South Korea, Japan, and Australia.

"None of the three countries you named are part of ASEAN," Duckworth snapped.

"You say you care about keeping our military strong and that you value meritocracy in the armed forces. Then let’s not lower the standards for you. Sir, you do not belong here."