
Two Trump administration officials publicly declined to characterize Russia as the provocateur in its war against Ukraine, despite the war having begun when Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Limited time: Save 25% on NBC News subscription Get exclusive reporting, live Q&As and ad-free reading.
Main Idea: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth declined to say Russia started the war in Ukraine, while Donald Trump and other top officials softened blame on Moscow as talks with Russia continued.
Key Points:
Trump officials’ refusal to clearly blame Russia may weaken US support for Ukraine, raise doubts among allies, and keep war-related costs and risks in play for households and businesses.
If the talks help push a peace deal, US taxpayers and consumers could face fewer costs from a long war and less risk of wider economic shock.
Rate how each entity in this article affected the American people.
Central figure in the article for declining to say Russia unprovoked the war and for his public comments.
Major central actor because the story focuses on his administration’s shift in tone and his stated position on.
Named Trump administration official whose remarks on the war are a major focus of the article.
Major foreign leader referenced as the Russian president tied to the invasion and Trump’s selective criticism.
Key public figure discussed as Trump criticized him and contrasted him with Vladimir Putin.
Mentioned as the department that did not immediately respond to comment, with limited direct action in the story.
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