Pentagon chief assures Reznikov of U.S. commitment to supporting Ukraine

“Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke with Ukrainian Minister of Defence Oleksii Reznikov to reiterate the unwavering U.S. commitment to supporting Ukraine's ability to counter Russia's aggression,” reads the Pentagon’s press release published following Austin–Reznikov talks on Friday.

As noted, Secretary Austin also underscored the international community's continued support in building Ukraine's enduring strength and safeguarding Ukraine's ability to defend itself in the future, as demonstrated by the security assistance commitments made by allies and partners at the most recent Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting on October 12.

The ministers pledged to remain in close contact.

In turn, Minister of Defense of Ukraine Oleksii Reznikov posted on Twitter that he had discussed the enhancement of Ukrainian air defense capabilities and security situation with Lloyd Austin.

“US condemns Russian strikes on civilian and energy infrastructure. The Secretary of Defense assured that no matter who negotiates with whom: U.S. support of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity remains unwavering,” Reznikov wrote.

Earlier, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin had a second phone call with Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu since Russia invaded Ukraine.

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