Reznikov, Austin discuss further steps to strengthen Ukraine's air defense

Minister of Defense of Ukraine Oleksii Reznikov and U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III discussed further steps to strengthen the capabilities of the Ukrainian air defense system against the background of continued Russian missile attacks on civilian infrastructure.

“I would like to express my deep gratitude to the U.S. Secretary of Defense, who sincerely cares about the situation in Ukraine. During our phone call today, just after Russian massive missile attack, we discussed further steps to strengthen Ukrainian Air Defense,” Reznikov posted on Twitter on December 5.

The minister also thanked the United States for its continued support for Ukraine.

In turn, Austin condemned Russia's brutal air attacks on Ukraine's civilian infrastructure and reinforced the unwavering U.S. commitment to support Ukraine's ability to counter Russia's war of aggression.

“Secretary Austin reiterated air defense as a top priority for U.S. security assistance efforts, made evident by recent commitments to provide Ukraine additional munitions for U.S.-provided National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) as well as capabilities to counter Unmanned Aerial System,” says the readout of Austin’s call with Reznikov published by Pentagon.

As noted, the leaders pledged to remain in close contact.

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