US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has arrived in the Ukrainian capital on an official visit. The Pentagon chief said he came to Kyiv to deliver an important message.

Austin noted that he would hold meetings with the country's leadership. He made the announcement on social network X, formerly known as Twitter.

The head of the US defense department noted that during the talks with representatives of the Ukrainian authorities, he intends to assure that the United States will continue to support Ukraine in its fight against the Russian occupiers. Austin also emphasized that US support will continue in the future.

"I have just arrived in Kyiv to meet with Ukrainian leaders. I am here today to deliver an important message - the United States will continue to support Ukraine in its fight for freedom against Russian aggression, now and in the future," Austin said.

The Pentagon chief was met in the Ukrainian capital by US Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink.

The U.S. Defense Department said that during his visit to Ukraine, Austin will emphasize the United States' continued commitment to providing Ukraine with the security assistance it needs to defend itself against Russian aggression and will discuss a long-term vision for Ukraine's future forces.

The Pentagon also noted that during his visit, Austin will hold high-level talks with Ukraine's leadership. The discussions will focus on further strengthening the strategic partnership between the United States and Ukraine, including providing Ukraine's armed forces with the combat capabilities they need to survive the winter and defend their country against future Russian threats.

As a reminder, leaders of the US Congress hope to agree on an additional aid package for Ukraine and Israel by the end of the year. The Republican-led House of Representatives has already passed a bill to help Israel, but it does not include humanitarian aid.

Earlier, U.S. President Joe Biden explained why Washington's assistance to Kyiv is so important. Firstly, this support is an investment in the US's own security, and secondly, it allows US troops not to be directly involved in this war in Europe.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, on November 16, US President Joe Biden signed a bill on temporary government funding that will avoid the so-called shutdown - the shutdown of the federal government. This document does not specify spending to support Ukraine and Israel.

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