Trump's Actions Spark Concerns: Military Firings, Ukraine Strategy, and European Defense

Five former defense secretaries criticized President Trump's dismissal of senior military officials, labeling it partisan and urging congressional hearings. Those ousted include Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr., Adm. Lisa Franchetti, and Gen. James Slife. Trump nominated Lt. Gen. Dan "Razin" Caine to replace Brown. The former secretaries called for a halt to Defense Department confirmations until justifications are provided. During a meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump expressed unfamiliarity with the AUKUS security pact between the US, UK, and Australia. Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to advance peace efforts and sign a raw materials agreement granting the US access to Ukrainian rare earth minerals. He envisions economic engagement as a safeguard against external aggression. Trump reiterated his skepticism about Ukraine's NATO membership, favoring a phased approach to peace, starting with a ceasefire. Following his election victory, German CDU leader Friedrich Merz declared his priority to make Europe independent of the US, advocating for an independent European defense capability. He met with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss European defense. Macron and Starmer met with Trump to discuss Ukraine peace negotiations.