Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth will reportedly not attend the Ramstein group either virtually or in person

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will skip the next meeting of countries coordinating military support for Ukraine - the first such absence by a Pentagon chief - Defense News has reported, citing US and European officials.

The Ukraine Defense Contact Group, or UDCG - also known as the Ramstein group - is set to convene in Brussels on April 11 for the 27th time since the escalation of the conflict in 2022. Founded by Hegseth's predecessor, Lloyd Austin, the 50-nation coalition has provided more than $126 billion in military aid to Kiev, including F-16 fighter jets and large quantities of 155mm artillery shells.

An unnamed US official told the outlet on Wednesday that Hegseth would not attend in person and is not expected to join virtually either. The Pentagon is unlikely to send any senior representatives, who typically accompany the secretary on such trips, the official said.

Washington is still assessing how its officials will participate in various Ukraine-related forums, including those overseeing arms deliveries and training, according to the source.

Reacting to reports of Hegseth's likely absence, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova wrote ironically on Telegram: "The crew bids you farewell and wishes you a pleasant flight."

Hegseth attended the Ramstein group's meeting in February but unlike Austin, did not chair the session.

According to the report, Austin missed only one in-person meeting during his tenure - in early 2024 due to health issues - but joined virtually while a senior Pentagon official led the group. The US, which often hosted the meetings at Germany's Ramstein Air Base, became closely associated with the format.

The US, Ukraine's largest military donor, has since shifted its approach under President Donald Trump, who has called for Kiev to repay aid already delivered.

The Trump administration has signaled a broader policy shift, urging European allies to take the lead in supporting Ukraine and boosting their own military spending.

In Brussels in February, Hegseth told European officials they should take greater responsibility for their military posture instead of relying on Washington. He also ruled out the possibility of NATO membership for Ukraine - a position confirmed by President Donald Trump.

(RT.com)