US Defense Secretary arrives in Ukraine with ‘important message’

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin arrived in the Ukrainian capital, Kiev, on Monday for an unannounced visit aimed at what he described as “delivering an important message.”

Austin wrote on the “X” (formerly Twitter) platform: “I am here today to convey an important message: The United States will continue to stand with Ukraine in its fight for freedom against Russian aggression, now and in the future ”.

The Pentagon said in a statement Monday that Austin will travel to Kiev “to meet with Ukrainian leaders and reinforce strong U.S. support for Ukraine’s fight for freedom.”

The discussions will focus on strengthening the strategic partnership between the United States and Ukraine, including ensuring that Ukraine’s armed forces have the field capabilities they need to winterize and defend their country from future Russian threats, according to the statement .

Later this week, Secretary Austin will also host the 17th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group virtually from the Pentagon, continuing the vital work of international coordination and support for Ukraine with the participation of nearly 50 countries.

The United States is leading international efforts to support Ukraine by coordinating aid from dozens of countries through biannual Contact Group meetings.

Ukraine’s supporters have provided training to Kiev’s forces, while the United States and other Western countries have imposed tough sanctions on Moscow.

The United States is the largest donor of military aid to Ukraine and has provided $43.9 billion since the Russian invasion, helping Kiev retake territory captured by Moscow.