U.S. Officials Express Frustration Over European Military Inaction in Yemen
Texts between Vice-President J.D. Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reveal contempt for European nations, whom they perceive as ‘freeloaders’ relying on U.S. military support in Yemen. Concerns about European involvement and minimizing risks to Saudi oil facilities preceded successful military strikes against Houthi militants.
Recent texts between Vice-President J.D. Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reveal a strong disdain for European allies’ contributions, particularly in the context of military actions against Houthi militants in Yemen. Vance expressed frustration over the perceived reliance of European nations on U.S. support, saying, “I just hate bailing Europe out again.” He suggested prior actions to minimize risks to Saudi oil facilities.
Hegseth concurred, stating, “I fully share your loathing of European freeloading. It’s PATHETIC.” These messages were part of a larger discussion that inadvertently included Atlantic’s editor Jeffrey Goldberg, who received them while the officials planned military strikes. These planned attacks were executed shortly thereafter.
The exchanged texts between U.S. officials demonstrate a notable frustration towards European nations regarding their military engagement in Yemen. Vance and Hegseth’s comments illustrate a belief that European allies are not contributing sufficiently to joint military efforts, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict with Houthi militants. This sentiment, reflecting a broader tension in international military collaboration, led to immediate military action by U.S. forces.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
