Putin won't Stop if He is Successful in Ukraine : Lloyd Austin

Defense News ,Russia ,U.S :-  In a resolute stance against the ongoing conflict with Russia, U.S. Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin emphasized America's unwavering support for Ukraine, cautioning that a victorious Vladimir Putin would not halt his ambitions at Ukraine's borders.

During the 20th meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group convened at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, Secretary Austin asserted that Ukraine remains steadfast against Russian aggression, a sentiment echoed by the United States, according to a statement from the U.S. Department of Defence (DOD).

The gathering, held to coordinate efforts in aiding Ukraine, commended the collaborative efforts of "countries of conscience" assisting in Ukraine's defense.

Secretary Austin, alongside Air Force General CQ Brown, Jr., Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, engaged with representatives from over 50 nations and organizations to facilitate the provision of aid, training, and capabilities to Ukraine.

Highlighting Ukraine's resilience in confronting Putin's aggression over the past two years, Secretary Austin cited the significant toll exacted upon Russia, with over 315,000 Russian troops reportedly killed or wounded in the conflict.

He underscored the exorbitant cost Russia has borne, estimating expenditures of up to USD 211 billion and projecting a staggering total of USD 1.3 trillion in economic loss by 2026 due to the conflict.

Secretary Austin emphasized Ukraine's courage in facing the "Kremlin's invaders" and reaffirmed their determination to resist Putin's advances, stressing that the international community comprehends the broader implications of Russian success in Ukraine.

Acknowledging the critical need for enhanced capabilities, especially in air defense, armor, and artillery ammunition, Secretary Austin disclosed the allocation of an additional USD 300 million in security assistance for Ukraine, supported by bipartisan consensus in Congress.

The meeting marked the inception of the capability coalition leadership group, led by nations including Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, aiming to coordinate efforts and address overarching issues in support of Ukraine's defense.

In reaffirming U.S. commitment alongside its allies, Secretary Austin signaled a united front against Russian aggression, emphasizing the imperative of bolstering Ukraine's defenses to safeguard regional stability and deter further aggression.