Pentagon remains silent about authorization for strikes on Russia following Austin's meeting with Umerov
US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin (photo: Getty Images)
US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin underscored America's unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine during today's meeting with Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov at the Pentagon, according to the US Department of Defense website.
Austin condemned Russia's attack on critical Ukrainian civilian infrastructure earlier this week, stating that the US will continue to lead allies and partners in providing key capabilities to help Ukraine defend itself.
"Let me be clear, it is never acceptable to target civilians, and Ukraine's resilience will help it prevail over Putin's aggression and atrocities," Austin said.
He added that Ukrainian forces remain resolute.
"They continue to fend off [the] Kremlin's assault and to inflict major losses on Russian invaders. So, make no mistake, the United States will not waiver in our support for a free and sovereign Ukraine," he stated.
The Pentagon also noted that next week, a meeting in the Ramstein format will be held in Germany.
Austin said that at the meeting, partners will seek to address Ukraine’s urgent battlefield needs, including air defense capabilities to counter Russian drones and missile attacks.
According to CNN, this week, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov will hold meetings with representatives of the Biden administration, aiming to convince the US to lift restrictions on the use of American weapons for strikes on Russian territory.
Umerov did not provide any updates on the issue of strikes against Russia following his meeting with Austin.
