US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin called on allies and partners during a press conference after the Contact Group meeting in Germany to support Ukraine in preparing for potential Russian aggression in the upcoming winter. He urged them to provide additional defense ammunition as Ukraine faces the approaching winter season.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin Urges Allies to Strengthen Ukraine’s Winter Preparedness
In an article from Interfax Ukriane, during the press conference on Tuesday, following a meeting of the Contact Group for the Defense of Ukraine in Ramstein, Germany, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the need for allies and partners to support Ukraine in preparing for potential Russian aggression in the upcoming winter.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin called for increased donations of defense ammunition and highlighted the destruction caused by Russia to Ukraine’s energy infrastructure in the previous winter. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin also mentioned Russia’s airstrikes on grain infrastructure and stressed the importance of air defense for Ukraine’s protection.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin urged ministers to review their stocks of 155-millimeter ammunition and key air defense systems to assist Ukraine in its winter preparations. Additionally, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, emphasized ongoing long-term support through various coalitions, including training programs and technology initiatives to bolster Ukraine’s combat capabilities.
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U.S and Allies Remain Dedicated to Aid Ukraine Despite Growing Concerns
According to AP NEWS, Ukrainian leaders, including President Zelenskyy, seek longer-range weapons to strike Russian targets from a safe distance, but U.S. concerns about potential provocation have caused hesitation. The Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) could offer Ukraine this capability, with a range of 180 miles (300 kilometers), but shorter-range variants exist.
In discussions, Canadian Defense Minister Bill Blair expressed openness to supporting Ukraine’s counteroffensive. Meanwhile, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed the imminent delivery of 31 M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, originally promised months ago. These tanks, recently in Europe, will soon cross into Ukraine. Ukrainian troops have been training on similar tanks since June.
Despite concerns of waning support, defense leaders remain dedicated to aiding Ukraine as the conflict enters its second year. Efforts continue to maintain international backing for Ukraine.
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