US Defense Secretary Praises Polish Support for Ukraine

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd J Austin III commends Poland for its support of Ukraine's defense during a meeting with Polish Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz. Both officials discussed NATO's eastern flank and reiterated their commitment to a free and sovereign Ukraine.

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd J Austin III praised Poland for its leadership role in supporting Ukraine's defense during a meeting at the Pentagon with Polish Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz. Austin emphasized that the United States, Poland, and their allies remain united in their support for a sovereign and free Ukraine.

Austin highlighted Poland's key contributions to the US-led Ukraine Defense Contact Group, particularly its oversight of the armor and maneuver capability coalition, which is critical for meeting Ukraine's short- and long-term security needs. 'Poland has always understood that Putin's war of choice in Ukraine threatens our shared security,' said Austin. 'The United States and Poland, along with our allies and partners, stand together for a free and sovereign Ukraine.'

Additionally, Austin noted that Poland's provision of vital logistics support and security assistance has been crucial to Ukraine's defense against Russia's ongoing assault. Meanwhile, Kosiniak-Kamysz shared images of their meeting on social media, highlighting discussions on NATO's eastern flank and the strategic partnership between Poland and the US. 'This is extremely important at a time when the Polish Army is being equipped with modern US-made equipment,' he said, citing F-35 aircraft, ABRAMS tanks, and Apache helicopters.

Kosiniak-Kamysz also expressed gratitude for the continued presence of US troops in Poland, working alongside Polish soldiers to ensure regional security. 'Among the topics we discussed were matters related to the current situation on NATO's eastern flank and support for Ukraine,' he posted, thanking Austin for America's steadfast support.

(With inputs from agencies.)