Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III to Visit Sweden and Attend Ukraine Defense Contact Group Meeting
WASHINGTON D.C. – On April 14, 2023, the Department of Defense announced that Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III will undertake an international visit, beginning with a trip to Sweden and culminating in his attendance at the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. This significant engagement underscores the United States’ steadfast commitment to its allies and partners in Europe and its unwavering support for Ukraine.
The visit to Sweden, a nation with a strong democratic tradition and a close security partner of the United States, is expected to focus on bilateral defense cooperation and regional security matters. Discussions are anticipated to cover a range of topics, including Sweden’s ongoing efforts to enhance its own defense capabilities and its important contributions to NATO and broader European security architecture. As Sweden continues its path toward NATO membership, this visit holds particular significance in reaffirming the strong bonds between the two nations and in discussing how to further strengthen collective security.
Following his visit to Sweden, Secretary Austin will travel to Ramstein Air Base, Germany, to participate in the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. This crucial forum brings together defense ministers and senior military leaders from dozens of nations to coordinate security assistance to Ukraine. The meeting will provide an opportunity to assess the current needs of Ukraine’s armed forces, discuss ongoing and future military aid packages, and ensure the sustained delivery of critical capabilities to support Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.
The Ukraine Defense Contact Group has served as a vital mechanism for galvanizing international support for Ukraine since its inception. Secretary Austin’s participation highlights the U.S.-led effort to ensure Ukraine has the resources it needs to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The discussions at Ramstein are expected to reinforce the shared resolve of the international community to support Ukraine’s self-defense efforts and to hold Russia accountable for its unprovoked invasion.
This dual-focus visit by Secretary Austin demonstrates the interconnectedness of European security and the enduring importance of collective action in addressing complex geopolitical challenges. The United States remains committed to working closely with its allies and partners to promote a secure and stable European continent and to support Ukraine’s resilience and eventual victory.
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