Texts exchanged between U.S. officials J.D. Vance and Pete Hegseth reveal their frustration with European allies, whom they accuse of “freeloading” off U.S. military efforts in Yemen. The conversations took place as they planned strikes against Houthi militants, reflecting deeper tensions regarding defense responsibilities between the U.S. and Europe.

Recent communications between Vice-President J.D. Vance and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth have surfaced, revealing deep discontent regarding European allies during discussions about military actions in Yemen against Houthi militants. The messages reflect their belief that European nations are “freeloading” off American military efforts.

In one exchange, Vance expressed his frustration by stating, “I just hate bailing Europe out again,” while emphasizing the need to minimize risks to Saudi oil facilities. Hegseth echoed Vance’s sentiments, declaring, “It’s PATHETIC” regarding the perceived dependency of European countries.

These texts emerged as part of an article in The Atlantic, which detailed the context of these conversations after editor Jeffrey Goldberg was inadvertently included in a group text involving senior Trump administration officials. This communication preceded military strikes against Houthi forces, who have been a significant threat to maritime operations in the Red Sea for over a year.

The exchanges between Vice-President J.D. Vance and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth underscore a prevailing sentiment among certain U.S. officials regarding European reliance on American military initiatives. Their characterizations of Europe as “freeloading” reflect concerns over the division of defense responsibilities in international conflicts, particularly in Yemen. The situation highlights ongoing tensions in transatlantic relations as military actions prepare to unfold.

Original Source: www.scmp.com

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