GOP Calls Hegseth A Rookie?
Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) recently criticized comments made by newly appointed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth regarding Ukraine’s potential NATO membership, calling them a “rookie mistake.” Wicker acknowledged Hegseth’s potential, noting, “Hegseth is going to be a great Defense Secretary, though he wasn’t my first choice for the job.” However, Wicker emphasized that Hegseth’s remarks during his trip to Brussels were a misstep that he later walked back, except for one critical point.
The comments in question concerned Hegseth’s position on whether Ukraine would eventually join NATO. Hegseth seemed to suggest that the issue was more settled than it truly is, leading to confusion and pushback. After receiving backlash, Hegseth clarified his remarks, stating that President Trump is leading the discussions and that “everything is on the table,” signaling that no final decisions have been made. Wicker, however, remains unsatisfied with Hegseth’s handling of the situation. He remarked that, “You don’t say before your first meeting what you will agree to and what you won’t agree to.”
Wicker, a steadfast supporter of Ukraine’s sovereignty since Russia’s initial invasion nearly three years ago, welcomed Hegseth’s decision to retract his statement. He was quick to reaffirm his belief that Ukraine deserves unwavering support in its fight against Russian aggression. “There are good guys and bad guys in this war,” Wicker said, making it clear that Russia, the aggressor, is the bad actor. “Ukraine is entitled to the promises that the world made to it,” he added.
Additionally, Wicker has continued to advocate for the U.S. to provide arms to Ukraine until a ceasefire is reached. He stressed that continued support is essential to counter the Russian threat, a stance he believes aligns with American values and global security.
As the war persists, former President Trump has made it clear that he is committed to negotiating peace, including discussions with both President Zelensky and President Putin, with an eventual meeting in Saudi Arabia scheduled. His administration has laid out a six-month timeline for achieving peace, aligning with his campaign promise to end the conflict and bring stability to the region.
Wicker’s position reflects a deep commitment to defeating Russian aggression and ensuring Ukraine’s ability to defend its independence—principles that resonate strongly with conservative voters who value national security and support for democratic allies abroad.
