U.S. pledges unwavering support to ensure Ukraine's sovereignty and security
The Pentagon chief warned that the security of Ukraine and America is currently under threat, and time is critical. "They don't have a single day to waste, nor do we, so I am leaving this meeting fully determined to ensure that military aid and ammunition continue to flow," said Lloyd Austin.
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"It's a matter of survival and sovereignty for Ukraine, it's a matter of honour and security for America," said Austin at a press conference after the conclusion of the meeting of representatives from dozens of countries supporting Ukraine.
Austin emphasised that the US cannot allow Russia's strategy, which aims to outwait the West, to succeed. Despite the dramatic situation, Austin assured that the 20th meeting in the Ramstein format was a success. He praised the creativity of America's allies, who are constantly looking for new ways to support Ukraine, including through the delivery of ammunition. He highlighted the efforts of the Czech Republic as an example of such support.
Austin also mentioned the American arms package worth up to £230 million, which was approved last week, despite the depletion of funds for replenishing the American arsenal.
When asked about the possibility of the front collapsing under Russian pressure and a shortage of ammunition among Ukrainian forces, Austin stated that despite Russia's incremental advances on the battlefield, Ukrainian counterparts are confident that they will be able to hold the front line.
Austin noted that providing ammunition for Ukraine is crucial. He expressed optimism about the chances of Congress accepting funds for further support of Ukraine, though he emphasized that "no one can predict" the outcome.
He admitted that in the current situation America must match its allies in terms of support for Ukraine, since 15 countries are allocating proportionally more funds than the US. He also mentioned that to date, the Ramstein group of countries have allocated military aid to Ukraine worth £68 billion.
"We all will be less safe if Putin has his way"
"The United States will not allow Ukraine to fall," assured the Pentagon chief at the beginning of the meeting. "This coalition will not let Ukraine fall and the free world will not permit it," said the US Secretary of Defense. "Everything must be done to prevent Vladimir Putin from realizing his 'imperial plans'," he emphasized. "We all will be less safe if Putin has his way," he added.
Also present at the press conference was the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. C.Q. Brown Jr., who commented on the situation on the battlefield. He noted that despite losing some territory, Ukraine is inflicting significant losses on Russia. Brown argued that Russia's strategy relies on waiting until the Western will to support Ukraine runs out. "This coalition cannot allow that strategy to work," he emphasized.
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