"The results of Ukraine's struggle for freedom will help shape the trajectory of global security in the 21st century. The future of Europe is at stake. The strength of NATO is on the line. And America's security is under threat," he stated.
Therefore, according to Austin, the U.S. and its allies recognize that "in the face of aggression, the cost of principle is always lower than the cost of capitulation."
The Pentagon chief reminded about Washington's response to the war, specifically mentioning the work of the contact group on Ukraine's defense in the "Ramstein" format. He noted that Germany alone has provided nearly $31 billion in military assistance to Ukraine through this group.
"I proudly remind you that the United States is also playing its part. Since February 2022, my country has allocated over $58 billion to Ukraine for security assistance. We have supplied two Patriot batteries and dozens of other air defense systems. We provided 24 HIMARS rocket systems, thousands of armored vehicles and drones, as well as millions of artillery shells and other critical munitions," he added.