UK, US defence chiefs discuss options for supporting Ukraine

Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin and British Defence Secretary Grant Shapps have discussed joint further assistance to Ukraine, the Pentagon press service has reported.

The two leaders underscored the US and the United Kingdom's shared commitment to upholding global peace and security as the two leaders met to discuss a range of security issues.

Austin said the US-UK alliance remains central as both countries work together to address the ongoing crisis in Israel and Gaza; attacks by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in the Red Sea; and Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine.

He added that the US and UK continue to "stand foursquare together with Ukraine" as Russia's invasion enters its third year.

"I look forward to discussing ways that we can continue to strengthen Ukraine's capability to defend its sovereign territory," Austin said.  

Amid the range of security challenges, Austin said the "US-UK special relationship is as strong as ever."