Austin Makes Call to New Counterpart in Ukraine

Sept. 11, 2023

Today, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III telephoned newly appointed Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov to discuss Umerov's new role and ongoing U.S. support as Ukraine continues to fight against Russia's illegal invasion.

"The secretary congratulated the minister on his new position and reiterated our steadfast support for Ukraine," said Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder today during a media briefing. "[The secretary] provided an update on U.S. security assistance efforts and exchanged views with the minister on priorities to support Ukraine's immediate battlefield needs and capability requirements over the long term."

https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/3522022/austin-makes-call-to-new-counterpart-in-ukraine/