Kyiv
US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has arrived in Ukraine on Monday amidst heightened tensions with Russia, reaffirming the United States’ commitment to Ukraine’s security. During his visit, Austin is set to engage in high-level discussions with Ukrainian leaders, focusing on strengthening security assistance to support Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
Austin, in a post on social media platform X, emphasized the significance of his visit, stating, ‘I’m back in Ukraine for the fourth time as Secretary of Defense, demonstrating that the United States, alongside the international community, continues to stand by Ukraine.’ The Pentagon highlighted that the Secretary’s meetings aim to underline the US’s dedication to providing Ukraine with the necessary resources to counter Russian aggression.
Austin’s visit coincides with concerns raised by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy about a growing alliance between Russia and North Korea, which could escalate the ongoing war. Zelenskyy expressed alarm over North Korea’s supply of military personnel to Russia and the implications for regional stability. He urged international partners to respond to the evolving threat, emphasizing that North Korean troops are not merely support workers but also combat personnel. Reports from South Korea’s National Intelligence Service revealed that North Korea has dispatched 1,500 soldiers to Russia for training. This is seen as North Korea’s first direct military involvement in Moscow’s war effort. The intelligence suggested that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally reviewed the troops before their deployment.
