May 21, 2025 | Washington, D.C. — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth praised President Donald J. Trump’s foreign policy leadership on Tuesday, declaring that the administration is “fixing America’s reputation on the world stage” after what he described as years of decline under previous leadership.

In remarks delivered at the Pentagon and later echoed during a national security forum, Hegseth credited Trump with reasserting American strength, rebuilding military confidence, and taking a firm stance against adversaries.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, we are no longer apologizing for our strength—we are embracing it,” Hegseth said. “Our allies respect us again, and our enemies think twice. That’s what real leadership looks like.”

Citing key initiatives such as the proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense system, renewed defense alliances, and increased military funding, Hegseth argued that Trump is reestablishing the United States as a dominant force in global security.

“From NATO to the Indo-Pacific, America’s word means something again,” he said. “The President is not only restoring our capabilities, he’s restoring our credibility.”

Hegseth, a former Army officer and television commentator, has been a staunch ally of Trump and was appointed to lead the Department of Defense earlier this year. His comments align closely with the administration’s message of “peace through strength,” a core pillar of Trump’s renewed campaign agenda.

Critics, however, argue that Trump’s confrontational style and “America First” approach continue to strain some diplomatic relationships. Still, supporters view the shift as a necessary recalibration of U.S. foreign policy.

As the 2024 election season continues, restoring America’s global standing is expected to remain a central theme in Trump’s national security platform.