Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin Makes Unexpected Visit To Kyiv To Show Continued Support of Ukraine

by Sharelle Burt

November 21, 2023

That is his second go to to the European nation.

United States Protection Secretary Lloyd Austin made an unannounced cease in Kyiv to push the the nation’s help of Ukraine.

Austin got here from Poland on Nov. 20 to reaffirm that cash and weapons will stay in Ukraine despite the fact that america and different nations are tied up with new world dangers because of the Israel-Hamas battle.

He introduced on X, previously referred to as Twitter, that he can be assembly with Ukrainian leaders, together with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Protection Minister Rustem Umerov and Chief of Employees Gen. Valery Zaluzhny. “I’m right here as we speak to ship an vital message–america will proceed to face with Ukraine of their combat for freedom in opposition to Russia’s aggression, each now and into the longer term,” he wrote.

That is the second time Austin has visited Ukraine’s capital metropolis. The primary was in April 2022, only a few months after Russia’s main invasion. Throughout that point, Austin initiated worldwide efforts which can be presently internet hosting conferences for 50 nations to coordinate which weapons, coaching, and different technique of help will be pushed into Kyiv. As of November 2023, america has given Ukraine over $44 billion in weapons, starting from bullets to air protection programs, European and U.S. battle tanks and pledges for F-16 fighter jets.

Nevertheless, in early November 2023, based on ABC Information, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated artillery shell deliveries to his homeland have “actually slowed down.” European nations resembling Poland have scaled again tremendously on their help, stating their want to take care of an satisfactory skill to defend themselves.

Elected officers have been pushing for america to offer extra funding for Ukraine, however Republicans disagree. Some really feel extra help isn’t wanted with out assured help for different points, resembling stricter immigration legal guidelines and funding for border management. A brand new invoice was handed to keep away from a authorities shutdown throughout the holidays, however cash for Ukraine wasn’t included.