Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin affirmed that nearly 50 defense leaders from around the world met on May 23, 2022. Hence, they all agreed to send Ukraine more advanced weapons, including a harpoon launcher and missiles to protect its coast.
Also, according to Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, “low-level” discussions are taking place. In order to know how the US might need to change its training of Ukrainian forces, as well as whether some US troops might be stationed in Ukraine.
Before the battle, the US withdrew its few troops from Ukraine. Thus, it has no intentions to deploy in combat forces. Mr. Milley’s remarks left the door open to troops returning for embassy protection or other non-combat purposes.
The US embassy in Kyiv has reopened partially and is re-staffing. Therefore, this raises doubts about whether the US would deploy a Marine security team back in to help safeguard the embassy or whether alternative measures should be considered.
Mr. Milley responded that any reintroduction of US forces into Ukraine would require a presidential decision. Mr. Austin refused to clarify whether the US will supply Ukraine high-tech mobile missile launchers, which the country has sought. Mr. Austin, on the other hand, noted that 20 countries stated on Monday that they will provide new security assistance packages to Ukraine as the country’s war with Russia enters its third month.
Countries offering defense assistance
Mr. Milley specifically stated that Denmark has agreed to send a harpoon launcher and missiles to Ukraine to aid in the defense of the country’s shore. Russia has ships in the Black Sea and has fired cruise missiles into Ukraine with them. Thus, all commercial ship movement into Ukraine ports has been halted by Russian ships.
Mr. Austin affirmed that after the virtual conference with the defense commanders that they have gained a sharper, shared picture of Ukraine’s priority requirements and the situation on the battlefield. Further, a number of countries are contributing important artillery ammunition, coastal defense systems, including tanks and other armored vehicles. Others came forward with new training obligations. The Ukrainian military has been trained in surrounding European countries by the US and other countries.
Mr. Austin went on to say that the Czech Republic had just contributed assault helicopters, tanks, and rockets. Also, countries like Italy, Greece, Norway, and Poland had announced new artillery and ammunition deliveries on Monday.
Mr. Milley presented the most comprehensive account of the growing US involvement in Europe since Russia’s invasion in late February. There were about 78,000 US troops in the region last fall, and that number has already risen to 1,02,000. It included 24 surface ships, four submarines, 12 fighter jet squadrons, two combat aviation units, and six Army brigade combat teams, as well as their division and corps commanders.
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