US defense chief vows to continue military assistance to Ukraine | NHK WORLD-JAPAN News

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has pledged continued support for Ukraine to strengthen its air defense capabilities.

Austin made the remark when he met Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov at the Pentagon on Friday.

He referred to the waves of Russian attacks on Ukraine earlier this week. He stressed that it is never acceptable to target civilians.

The secretary added that the United States and its allies will continue to provide the critical capabilities that Ukraine needs to fight the Russian aggression and fend off drone and missile attacks.

The meeting came after a US-made F-16 fighter jet of the Ukrainian military crashed earlier this week. It has caused concerns that the loss could seriously impact Ukraine’s air defense.

Umerov expressed his gratitude for the US assistance.

The two officials also reportedly exchanged views on the latest situation on the frontline and Ukraine’s plans.