Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Meeting With Ukrainian Minister of Defence Rustem Umerov

Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III met today with Ukrainian Minister of Defence Rustem Umerov at the Pentagon, reaffirming the unwavering support of the United States for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. Secretary Austin highlighted ongoing U.S. security assistance efforts to meet Ukraine's most urgent requirements, including $2.3 billion in additional security assistance that will be announced soon to provide Ukraine with a significant number of urgently needed air defense interceptors to protect Ukrainian cities and civilians from Russia's unrelenting aerial attacks, as well as artillery and anti-tank weapons to support Ukraine's needs on the frontlines.

The two leaders also discussed the upcoming NATO Summit in Washington and the steps Allies are taking to support Ukraine and ensure there's a bridge to Ukraine's future membership in the Alliance.

Minister Umerov provided Secretary Austin an update of dynamics on the ground in Ukraine, as Ukraine's forces bravely continue to fight Russian aggression.

The two leaders pledged to remain in close contact.