Chris Coons Questions Pete Hegseth on U.S. Allies and Ukraine Aid

Continuing Resolutions and Appropriations

• 🎯 A full-year continuing resolution is stated as not preferable for the Department of Defense, as it lowers buying power and hinders long-term industry investments.
• ⚠️ Senator Coons expresses concern that governing by continuing resolution, reconciliation, and rescission bypasses Congress's appropriation role and increases risk.
• ✅ The commitment is made to work towards a fullyear appropriation to ensure the Defense Department receives a robust budget.

Ukraine Aid and Sanctions

• 🇺🇦 Senator Coons notes Vladimir Putin's lack of intent to negotiate and continued attacks on civilian targets in Ukraine.
• ❓ He questions the elimination of aid to Ukraine in the 2026 request, contrasting it with bipartisan Senate efforts for more sanctions on Russia and aid for Ukraine.
• 🤝 The question is posed whether the U.S. should use every tool at its disposal, including additional sanctions, to pressure Russia towards peace.

U.S. Allies and NATO

• 🗣️ Senator Coons takes exception to the idea that European allies cannot freeload off the U.S. in perpetuity, citing allied contributions in Afghanistan and Ukraine.
• 💡 He highlights that a significant number of European allies provided military support, material, and financial aid for Ukraine.
• ✈️ The message sent by not using presidential draw down authority for air defense to Ukraine is questioned.
• 🎖️ Secretary Hegseth acknowledges the capability of NATO allies but emphasizes the need for real defense capability and real armies within alliances, referencing past coalition efforts.
• 🤝 Hegseth states that Europe is