Watch Live Stream: James Mattis's Confirmation Hearing For Secretary Of Defense

Former Marine Gen. James Mattis testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee Thursday in his first day of confirmation hearings as Donald Trump's Cabinet pick for secretary of defense.

Like Rex Tillerson, nominee for secretary of state, Mattis diverged rhetorically somewhat from Trump's stated foreign policy views. Though he echoed Trump's intentions to engage with Moscow, he has emphasized the extensive threats coming from the Russian regime.

“Challenges posed by Russia include alarming messages from Moscow regarding the use of nuclear weapons; treaty violations; the use of hybrid warfare tactics to destabilize other countries; and involvement in hacking and information warfare,” Mattis said in a written statement, noting dangers Trump has downplayed.

"I would consider the principle threats to start with Russia," he said in response to a question about the main threats to American interests.

Mattis also stressed the importance of NATO in maintaining pressure on Vladimir Putin, the Russian president.

“NATO is central to our defense,” he said. “I believe the alliance must harness renewed political will to confront and walk back aggressive Russian actions and other threats to the security of its members."

Watch the hearing live below:

Photo credit: U.S. Military (public domain)