"This support demonstrates a deep commitment." Austin announces total amount of military aid to Ukraine

The United States and its partner countries have provided Kyiv with defense assistance totaling more than $76 billion. In this way, almost 50 countries have demonstrated their "deep determination" to support Ukraine.

This was stated by U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin during the opening of the 15th meeting of the Contact Group on Ukraine's Defense in the Ramstein format in Germany,Interfax reports. He assured that together the partners will be able to provide our country with everything it needs.

Austin also thanked former Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov "for everything he has done for a free Ukraine" and emphasized "his hard work and dedication." The Pentagon chief then congratulated the new head of the Ukrainian defense ministry, Rustem Umerov. Austin noted that he enjoyed the conversation with him that took place a few days ago, as well as the meeting on the fields of Ramstein.

"I look forward to working closely with you and your team," the US Secretary said.

He also noted the success of the Ukrainian counteroffensive and expressed his belief that "time is not on Putin's side."

"The Kremlin has isolated itself with its blatant aggression. Just look at the 50 countries proudly represented at this table, standing together to defend Ukraine and the rules-based international order. And then look at the Kremlin, which is left alone with countries like Iran and North Korea," the Pentagon chief said.

As a reminder, the regular meeting of the Contact Group on Ukraine's Defense in the Ramstein format started in Germany on September 19. Officials from Ukraine's partner countries meet offline. For the first time, they were joined by Rustem Umerov, who was recently appointed to the post of Ukraine's Defense Minister.

As OBOZREVATEL previously reported:

- Defense Minister Trolls Lund Poulsen said that Denmark plans to transfer 45 more tanks to Ukraine: 30 Leopard 1 and 15 T-72. Copenhagen buys armored vehicles for the Ukrainian Armed Forces in cooperation with other countries.

- A number of European countries have formed a new coalition to support Ukraine. Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin said that several countries will join forces to provide Leopard tanks to the Ukrainian military.

- Norway will provide Ukraine with about 50 NM199 tracked trucks, which are capable of transporting goods where wheeled trucks cannot go. They will be able to transport ammunition, food, and water for the Ukrainian military in the "fields."

Only verified information in our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber channels. Do not fall for fakes!