Defense Secretary Refuses Denial of Pentagon Invasion Plans for Greenland, Panama

During a Congressional hearing before the House Armed Services Committee, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth declined to deny that the Pentagon has contingency plans for the potential military invasions of Greenland and Panama. When pressed by both Democratic and Republican lawmakers, including Rep. Adam Smith and Rep. Mike Turner, Hegseth emphasized the Defense Department's role to maintain plans for any possible contingency, without explicitly confirming or denying plans to take the territories by force. Turner's attempts to clarify whether the Pentagon had plans to invade Greenland were met with cautious responses as Hegseth stressed cooperation with Greenland to secure it from threats. The discussion revealed bipartisan surprise and concern over the possibility that such plans exist under the current administration. Hegseth’s testimony highlighted the Pentagon’s preparedness for various scenarios, reflecting the administration’s strategic focus on key global territories. The issue remains under scrutiny as lawmakers and the public seek more transparency regarding U.S. military planning.