US defence chief promises Ukraine what it needs to fight Russia But goes no further

During an unannounced visit to Kyiv on October 21, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin assured that the United States “will get Ukraine what it needs” to continue its fight against Russia. However, he did not endorse key elements of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s proposed “victory plan.”

Austin emphasized that the US is committed to providing Ukraine with the necessary resources for its survival and security, highlighting that over $58 billion in security assistance has been delivered since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

The latest military aid package announced includes $400 million worth of munitions for rocket systems, artillery, armoured vehicles, and anti-tank weapons. This follows a recent $425 million aid announcement. Despite this support, Zelenskyy has called on Western allies to take further steps, such as inviting Ukraine to NATO and allowing the use of longer-range missiles to strike deep into Russian territory. These requests have received a lukewarm response.

Ukraine continues to struggle against a fierce Russian campaign along the eastern front, facing significant territorial losses and a harsh winter compounded by targeted strikes on its power grid. Austin’s comments notably lacked any commitment to NATO membership for Ukraine or support for more aggressive military strategies.

As the US presidential election approaches, officials are cautious to avoid measures that could escalate the conflict. Austin reiterated, “There is no silver bullet” that will turn the tide against Russia, emphasizing that the focus should remain on effective military capabilities.

Recent Russian missile strikes have underscored the urgency for Ukraine to secure more support, especially in ammunition. Attacks in Zaporizhzhia and Kryvyi Rih resulted in casualties and significant damage to civilian infrastructure, further highlighting the pressing need for military assistance.

By Vafa Guliyeva