Hegseth Grilled on Greenland Invasion, Ukraine Aid, Troop Deployment

Updated June 13, 2025

Defense Secretary Pete hegseth faced sharp questioning from lawmakers Thursday regarding potential military ⁤actions,⁣ his communication practices, and troop deployments. During his appearance before the House Armed Services⁢ Committee, Hegseth repeatedly dodged direct answers, leading to tense exchanges with both Democrats and Republicans. The hearing focused ⁤on key issues such as a‍ possible‍ invasion of Greenland, ⁢U.S. aid to Ukraine, Hegseth’s use ‍of the Signal messaging app, and the‍ deployment of troops in Los Angeles.

Rep. Adam Smith, D-wash., ranking member ‍of the committee, initiated the questioning by pressing Hegseth on weather the Defense Department maintains plans for military intervention in Greenland or Panama. ⁢Hegseth’s response that the Pentagon “plans for any particular contingency”‍ drew criticism. Smith retorted that he doubted Americans voted for a Greenland invasion, suggesting the management’s stance signaled a disregard for alliances.

Rep.Mike Turner, R-Ohio, sought⁢ clarification, asking Hegseth ‍to confirm there were no current Pentagon plans to invade Greenland.Hegseth reiterated that the Pentagon plans for various‍ contingencies⁤ and aims ‍to secure Greenland from potential threats. The exchange highlighted concerns about the U.S. military posture and its potential impact on international relations,⁢ a key aspect of national security and foreign policy.

Rep. Seth Moulton, D-Mass., questioned Hegseth about sharing ⁢classified information via the Signal app, specifically⁤ regarding U.S. attack ⁢plans in Yemen. Hegseth⁣ declined to comment, citing ⁣classification concerns. Moulton pressed further, leading Hegseth to admit he wouldn’t deny the information was classified. Moulton accused⁤ Hegseth of using an unclassified system for classified data, raising concerns about data security and adherence to protocol.

Rep. Salud Carbajal, D-Calif., labeled Hegseth ⁣an “embarrassment” and called for his resignation, citing⁤ the Signal⁢ app controversy,⁢ troop deployments in Los Angeles, and his views on the Russia-Ukraine war. Carbajal stated Hegseth had not inspired confidence in his leadership abilities.

rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., questioned Hegseth on potential U.S. ⁢military action against Iran, given reported threats from israel. Khanna sought assurance that the U.S. would not attack Iran unless frist attacked. Hegseth declined to provide such assurance, stating ‍his job was to be ⁤”postured and prepared.” He added that President Trump was giving Iran opportunities through ongoing talks ‍but recognized the threat of⁤ a nuclear Iran.

khanna also questioned Hegseth on whether he would follow federal court or Supreme Court rulings regarding the deployment of National Guard members and Marines in Los Angeles. Hegseth avoided a direct answer, ⁤stating his focus was⁢ on ensuring ‍troops in Los Angeles could ⁤support law enforcement. He‍ added that local judges should not determine foreign or national security policy.

The hearing concluded‍ a week of scrutiny for Hegseth on Capitol Hill,including previous questioning on the Russia-Ukraine war and the Pentagon’s budget information delays. The series of hearings underscores ongoing tensions between the Defense Department‍ and Congress regarding military strategy,communication practices,and adherence to legal⁢ and ethical standards.

The scrutiny of Hegseth’s actions reflects broader concerns about government ‍clarity, accountability, and the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches. The ⁣issues raised during the hearings are likely to continue to be debated in Congress and the ⁣public sphere.

What’s next

Lawmakers are expected to continue pressing for answers on these issues, potentially leading to further investigations and policy changes regarding military planning, ⁢data security, and troop deployment protocols. The debate surrounding U.S.⁤ foreign policy and military strategy remains a central focus in washington.