U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy used their final high-profile meeting at Ramstein Air Base in Germany to emphasize the need for continued international support for Ukraine. Addressing leaders from about 50 nations at the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting, Austin warned that reducing military aid could lead to greater instability and urged unwavering support.
“No responsible leader would let Putin have his way,” Austin said.
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Without directly addressing President-elect Donald Trump’s policies, Austin stressed the importance of continued support for Ukraine to maintain the rules-based international order. He added that halting military aid now would invite “more aggression, chaos, and war.”
“I’m leaving this contact group, not with a farewell, but with a challenge. The coalition to support Ukraine must not flinch. It must not falter, and it must not fail. Ukraine’s survival is on the line. But so is all of our security,” Austin said.
Austin acknowledged uncertainty surrounding the incoming administration’s approach but pointed to the coalition’s progress and urged leaders to remain committed.
Zelenskyy echoed these concerns, framing Ukraine’s fight as a broader defense of sovereignty.
“No matter what’s going on in the world, everyone wants to feel sure that their country will not just be erased off the map,” Zelenskyy said.
In its final weeks, the Biden administration focused on bolstering Ukraine’s defenses. A recently approved $500 million weapons package includes air defense missiles, sustainment equipment for F-16 fighter jets and other critical supplies. The Pentagon is working to deliver the aid before Trump’s inauguration on Jan. 20.
