Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth emphasized a renewed focus on military strength and strategic reassessment during his inaugural international trip. In Stuttgart, Germany, while visiting U.S. European Command and Africa Command, Hegseth engaged in physical training with troops from the 1st Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), demonstrating his commitment to connecting directly with service members.

Hegseth addressed reporters, highlighting the Trump administration's dedication to bolstering defense spending, aiming for a minimum of 3% of GDP. He criticized the previous administration's alleged underinvestment in military capabilities and underscored President Trump's commitment to rebuilding American military might. Hegseth also confirmed a global review of U.S. military posture, acknowledging the differing strategic approaches between the Trump and Biden administrations.

Hegseth welcomed collaboration with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, to identify and eliminate wasteful spending within the Pentagon. He emphasized that this partnership aims to streamline processes and redirect funds towards enhancing warfighting capabilities, not to advance unrelated agendas. Hegseth distinguished between the Defense Department's core mission of national defense and other agencies pursuing potentially divergent objectives.

Hegseth reiterated the importance of prioritizing warfighting capabilities, contrasting this with initiatives like climate change programs, which he believes fall outside the Defense Department's purview. He expressed confidence in DOGE's ability to identify billions of dollars in potential savings, which could be redirected to support frontline troops.

Regarding force posture, Hegseth stated that while no immediate cuts are planned, a comprehensive review is underway. He emphasized that President Trump's strategic outlook differs from that of the previous administration, necessitating a reassessment of global military deployments. He also confirmed the renaming of Fort Liberty back to Fort Bragg, honoring Pfc. Roland L. Bragg, a World War II hero.