Zelensky, US Defense Secretary Austin discuss further cooperation in security

KYIV. Sept 1 (Interfax-Ukraine) – During a working visit to the United States of America, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, the presidential press service reported on Wednesday.

Zelensky expressed condolences over the deaths of American troops in the Kabul terrorist attack.

"As the president of a country that is losing its best sons every day in the war unleashed by Russia in eastern Ukraine, I understand well the pain of the families of the victims and all of the American people," Zelensky said.

The President spoke about Ukraine’s assistance in evacuating foreign citizens from Afghanistan, as well as Afghans who needed protection. The head of the Pentagon, in turn, thanked for the help in taking people out of Afghanistan.

Zelensky assured that Ukraine remains and will remain on the same side with the United States in defending freedom and democracy.

The US Secretary of Defense congratulated Ukraine on the 30th anniversary of independence and assured that the United States would support Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and help counter Russian aggression. He also expressed support for Ukraine’s aspirations for NATO membership.

The parties discussed the situation in eastern Ukraine, which remains tense despite efforts to achieve de-escalation through peaceful diplomatic means. In particular, tensions are increasing in connection with the holding of the Russian military exercises West-2021.

It is noted that the President of Ukraine and the US Secretary of Defense also discussed the prospects for developing cooperation to counter Russia’s aggressive policy in the Azov-Black Sea region and to ensure freedom of navigation in international waters.

"The situation in the Black Sea requires an answer in the form of collective security," Zelensky’s press service quoted him as saying.

In turn, Austin said that the United States had decided to provide additional military assistance to Ukraine in the amount of $60 million, including the purchase of the Javelin portable anti-tank missile systems.

The President of Ukraine noted that the United States is a reliable partner in the field of security, and thanked for the continued support in providing annual assistance to Ukraine.

He also noted that he is determined to reform the Ukrainian defense industry and fully supports the corporatization of defense enterprises.

In addition, the President thanked the American side for the treatment and rehabilitation of the Ukrainian military and veterans. He noted that Ukraine is counting on American support in developing a network of treatment and rehabilitation centers for Ukrainian defenders.