US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, speaking at the opening of the Contact Group on Ukraine’s Defense in the Ramstein format on 19 March, pledged that the US will continue to support Ukraine in its defense against Russia’s aggression, even as Congress continues to stall funding for Kyiv.
The 20th meeting of Ukrainian allies in Ramstein format is focused on urgent measures to strengthen Ukraine’s defense, addressing the acute shortage of ammunition in the Ukrainian Armed Forces, and exploring ways to enhance Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, including air defense systems and missiles.
In his opening remarks, Austin highlighted the heavy toll the war has taken on Russia, citing estimates that at least 315,000 Russian military personnel have been killed or wounded, with the full-scale war costing Russia up to $211 billion.
“Ukraine’s troops face harsh conditions and hard fighting. And Ukraine’s civilians endure a constant barrage of Russian missiles and Iranian drones,” said Austin. “But Ukraine won’t back down. And neither will the United States.”
“The United States will not let Ukraine fail. This coalition will not let Ukraine fail, and the free world will not let Ukraine fail,” Austin pledged.
He also mentioned that just last week, the US announced an additional $300 million in military support for Ukraine. He described this measure as “extraordinary” in its aim to support urgent needs in air defense, artillery, and anti-tank capabilities.
“Ukraine’s survival is in danger,” Austin said. “Our allies and partners continue to step up, the United States must also,” he added.
US aid to Ukraine has been stalled since last fall due largely to opposition from the far-right Republicans in the US Congress, suspending military assistance that Kyiv badly needs to fight Russia. The Senate passed a $95 billion foreign aid bill, including $60+ billion for Ukraine, last month with bipartisan support, yet Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson made clear he wouldn’t give it a vote on the House floor, stating on 14 February that the House will not feel “rushed” to pass the package.
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