According to the television channel, the head of the Pentagon will meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. The discussions will focus on the needs of Ukrainian defense forces for weapons to combat Russian aggression.
CNN notes that the future of American assistance to Ukraine depends on the upcoming presidential elections in the USA. During his visit, Austin will assess the outcomes of cooperation between the countries amid the war over the past two and a half years, a senior defense official stated to the channel.
Journalists reported that there were explosions in Kyiv in the morning – Russian occupiers attacked the capital with drones. The city mayor, Vitali Klitschko, later announced that buildings were damaged and there were injuries.
Later, Austin confirmed his arrival in Ukraine.
"I’m back in Ukraine for the fourth time as Secretary of Defense, demonstrating that the United States, alongside the international community, continues to stand by Ukraine," the Pentagon chief wrote, sharing a photo from Kyiv's train station where he was greeted by the U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine, Bridget Brink.
I’m back in Ukraine for the fourth time as Secretary of Defense, demonstrating that the United States, alongside the international community, continues to stand by Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/0gCwAqqEpK
— Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III (@SecDef) October 21, 2024