US Defense Secretary Austin Vows Support for Ukraine Amid Congressional Funding Delays
RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany — In a powerful declaration, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin made it clear on Tuesday that the US is unwavering in its support for Ukraine, stating that the country will not be allowed to fail even as critical funding from Congress remains stalled.
Addressing the 20th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, Austin praised Ukraine’s military for continuously weakening the Kremlin’s capabilities.
“Ukraine won’t back down, and neither will the United States,” Austin asserted, sitting alongside Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. “Our message today is crystal clear: The United States will not let Ukraine fail. This coalition will not let Ukraine fail. And the free world will not let Ukraine fail.”
This visit marks Austin’s first official trip abroad since undergoing prostate cancer treatment in December. He had virtually participated in the previous two contact group meetings after being hospitalized on Jan. 1 due to complications from his procedure.
Amid alarming reports of Ukraine’s dwindling ammunition supplies, Austin’s comments come at a crucial time. A senior US defense official noted on Friday that Ukraine is significantly outmatched on the battlefield.
Russia’s artillery production surpasses that of the US and Europe by almost threefold, with an estimated output of 3 million munitions annually compared to 1.2 million from the US and Europe, as per a senior European intelligence official.
“Russia’s output is relentless, immense, and around-the-clock,” a European lawmaker revealed to CNN. “Their determination to outlast us with patience and resilience should not be underestimated.”
When asked about Ukraine’s ability to sustain its fight against Russia without increased US support, the official acknowledged that the timeframe depended on various factors and emphasized that it was a matter of weeks to months, not years.
Austin highlighted the staggering losses Russia has incurred, including 315,000 troops killed or wounded since February 2022, and a financial toll of up to $211 billion for its aggression against Ukraine.
Additionally, Austin stated that Russia would suffer a loss of $1.3 trillion in anticipated economic growth through 2026 due to the war. He also noted Ukraine’s successes in neutralizing Russian naval vessels and aircraft.
Despite uncertainty in Congress regarding supplemental aid for Ukraine, House Speaker Mike Johnson assured Republican senators of his commitment to finding a pathway forward for aid in the House of Representatives.
In the absence of congressional action, the Pentagon announced a $300 million aid package last week, utilizing savings from other US Army contracts. Austin described this as an “extraordinary measure” and emphasized the collaborative effort with allies to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
However, officials cautioned that the $300 million would only provide temporary relief. President Joe Biden and national security adviser Jake Sullivan both acknowledged that the aid package, while crucial, would only sustain Ukraine’s ammunition needs for a limited period.
“Ukraine’s survival is at stake, and our security is intertwined with theirs,” Austin reiterated. “We will stand united against Putin’s expansionist agenda and remain steadfast in our support for the people of Ukraine.” — CNN
