During a tense Senate Appropriations hearing, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth clashed with Sen. Mitch McConnell over the Trump administration’s evolving stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. McConnell questioned Hegseth on key issues, including who the aggressor was and which side the administration supported. Hegseth identified Russia as the aggressor but emphasized President Trump’s commitment to peace, even if the outcome might not align with many U.S. interests. The exchange highlighted mainstream Republican concerns over the administration’s shift from sanctions and strong diplomatic engagement to a more transactional and disengaged foreign policy. Trump’s post-call announcement with Vladimir Putin—that the U.S. would no longer support new sanctions—further strained relationships with Ukraine and European allies, signaling a significant departure from previous rhetoric.

The strained dynamics between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, especially after a contentious Oval Office meeting, added to concerns. McConnell also pressed Hegseth about China’s stance, to which Hegseth responded that Chinese interests align with a favorable outcome for Russia or a prolonged conflict to distract the West. Meanwhile, domestic support for Trump’s approach remains strong. New CNN polling data shows a majority of Americans back Trump’s handling of the conflict, with his approval rating standing in stark contrast to former President Biden’s low marks on the same issue. CNN analyst Harry Enten noted Trump’s net approval is in positive territory, suggesting that, despite international criticism, American sentiment is currently leaning in Trump’s favor regarding the war in Ukraine.