GOP Senator Thom Tillis Criticizes Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over Ukraine Arms Shipment

Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina has publicly criticized Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, calling him "amateurish" and "out of his depth" in managing the Pentagon, particularly highlighting Hegseth's unilateral decision to pause U.S. weapons shipments to Ukraine without informing the White House. Tillis, who voted to confirm Hegseth under pressure from the Trump administration but will not seek reelection, expressed regret over his support and suggested the Senate Armed Services Committee was too lenient in its assessment of Hegseth's capabilities. The criticism reflects growing frustration among both Republican and Democratic lawmakers over Hegseth's lack of communication with Congress and perceived mismanagement. Despite these concerns, the White House maintains that President Donald Trump has full confidence in Hegseth. Tillis also hinted at broader dissatisfaction with other Trump cabinet members, including Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., but refrained from directly blaming the president. The situation underscores emerging tensions within the Republican Party regarding the Trump administration's appointments and handling of defense matters.