In a heated congressional hearing, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced strong criticism and tough questions from lawmakers. The session focused on two major issues: controversial military planning for Greenland and Panama and his use of a private messaging app to share military details.
Does the U.S. Really Plan to Invade Greenland or Panama?
When asked if the Pentagon has military plans to take control of Greenland or Panama, Hegseth responded, “Our job is to have plans for any contingency.” He repeated that answer several times, without denying that such plans exist. This upset both Democratic and Republican lawmakers.
Democratic Congressman Adam Smith pressed him directly, while Republican Mike Turner warned, “I sure as hell hope that is not your testimony.” Hegseth eventually said the U.S. wants to “work with Greenland to keep it secure,” but did not fully clarify.
President Trump has made it clear in past statements that he wants to control Greenland because of its strategic location and rich natural resources. However, Greenland has firmly rejected these ideas, saying the island “is not for sale.”
Signal App Controversy: Did Hegseth Leak Classified Information?
Hegseth is also under investigation for using the Signal messaging app to talk about U.S. military strikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen. The issue: he discussed strike timing and weapon details in messages that included his family members.
Lawmakers are concerned that this may have involved classified information. Hegseth insisted it wasn’t, but refused to answer directly whether he would take responsibility if proven otherwise.
Democratic Congressman Seth Moulton, a Marine veteran, asked if Hegseth would apologize for risking a pilot’s safety. Hegseth said: “I don’t apologize for success.”
A Pentagon watchdog report is expected soon to determine if Hegseth violated any rules.
Political Concerns: Is the U.S. Military Becoming Too Political?
Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine were also asked about a recent Trump speech at Fort Bragg. Soldiers in uniform were told to stand behind the President, who made political remarks and criticized former President Joe Biden.
This raised concerns about military neutrality. Caine said he was unaware of the details but repeated that troops must stay apolitical.
Women and Transgender Troops in Combat: Mixed Views
Another heated topic was Hegseth’s stance on women and transgender people serving in combat roles. He said he wants only the most capable troops and that women carry military gear differently, so context matters.
He previously opposed women in combat but now claims the military should have “high and equal standards.” Still, he reversed support for three female soldiers after learning they were transgender.
Democrats criticized this as discriminatory, while Republican lawmakers supported Hegseth and opposed using Pentagon funds for gender transition surgeries.