The United States will support Ukraine for as long as it takes to defeat Russian President Vladimir Putin, said Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin on April 12, 2023. The assurance came after a meeting between Mr. Austin and Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal at the Pentagon.
Mr. Austin said – ‘Russia’s cruel war of choice has killed thousands of Ukrainians, both troops and innocent civilians, and Putin’s war has driven millions of Ukrainians from their homes.’
The Defense Secretary added that the US will also expand its training to ensure that Ukraine can synchronize its fires and maneuver capabilities to advance on the battlefield.
The US commitment to continuing assistance is vital for Ukraine.
The US has sent billions of dollars worth of weapons and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine since Russia launched the invasion in February 2022.
Ukrainian PM reiterates gratitude, seeks long-range missiles
The Ukrainian Prime Minister thanked the American people for their support.
He said Ukraine would win the war, but to achieve victory with fewer casualties, the country would need more heavy artillery, mortars, and ammunition. Mr. Shmyhal also asked the US to consider providing missiles with a longer range.