Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense efforts against Russia during a meeting with defense leaders from Europe and worldwide at the Ramstein Air Base in Germany.
Amidst ongoing delays in Congress over funding approval to send additional weapons to Ukraine, Austin assured that the U.S. stands firmly behind Ukraine.
He emphasized, “The United States will not let Ukraine fail. This coalition will not let Ukraine fail. And the free world will not let Ukraine fail.”
Leaders of other nations pledged new aid for Ukraine at the meeting. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced Germany’s commitment to providing ammunition, armored vehicles, and transport vehicles worth approximately $542 million. This aid includes 10,000 rounds of ammunition and 100 each of armored and transport vehicles.
Pistorius expressed confidence in the Americans ‘ reliability when asked about the reliability of American allies given the funding delays in Congress.
Austin stressed the situation’s urgency, noting that Ukraine’s survival and sovereignty are at stake. He affirmed the U.S.’s determination to continue providing security assistance and ammunition to Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling this commitment.
The $300 million U.S. aid package, the first since December, was made possible by using contract savings to fund new military aid for Ukraine.
This funding allowed for the swift provision of weapons and equipment from Pentagon stocks to Ukraine. However, ongoing delays in Congress over a new supplemental bill have hindered further assistance efforts.
Training Ukrainian forces also faces funding challenges, with the U.S. Army regional command for Europe and Africa expected to run out of money by June.
Despite these obstacles, efforts to support Ukraine’s defense continue, focusing on providing essential resources and training to Ukrainian troops.
Austin highlighted the significant toll the war has taken on Russia, with estimates suggesting hundreds of thousands of Russian troops killed or wounded and substantial financial costs incurred by Moscow.
Despite the challenges faced by Ukraine, Austin reiterated their resilience and determination to withstand Russian aggression, emphasizing the unwavering support of the United States and its allies.
