Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III is set to travel to Ramstein Air Base in Germany to attend the 25th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG). The UDCG was established in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and consists of around 50 nations that convene regularly to discuss Ukraine’s security needs. Austin’s participation in the upcoming meeting is aimed at reaffirming the United States’ commitment to Ukraine, alongside defense ministers and military leaders from around the world. The focus will be on providing practical and coordinated support to enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities and deter future aggression.
The announcement of Austin’s attendance at the UDCG meeting follows the Department of Defense’s recent announcement of two aid packages worth nearly $2.5 billion for Ukraine. One package includes $1.25 billion in presidential drawdown authority, while the other comprises $1.22 billion in funds from the Ukrainian Security Assistance Initiative. This marks the 73rd drawdown package and the 23rd package provided by the U.S. Agency for International Development under the current administration. The delivery of capabilities and equipment from these packages to Ukraine will continue beyond the current administration’s end date on Jan. 20.
During a briefing, Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh also announced DOD’s support for three high-profile national special security events. This includes providing 500 National Guardsmen to assist in the certification of electoral votes from the recent election on Jan. 6. Additionally, there is a pending request for 7,800 National Guardsmen and other forces from U.S. Northern Command to provide security and interagency support during the presidential inauguration on Jan. 20. Joint Task Force – National Capital Region will lead ceremonial honors for former President Jimmy Carter’s state funeral on Jan. 9.
The UDCG meeting and the aid packages for Ukraine demonstrate the United States’ ongoing commitment to supporting Ukraine’s security and defense needs. Secretary Austin’s participation in the meeting signifies the importance of working with global partners to reinforce Ukraine’s ability to defend itself and deter aggression. The allocation of significant aid packages underscores the U.S. government’s continued support for Ukraine’s security efforts. Additionally, the provision of manpower and resources for upcoming special security events highlights DOD’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of important national events.
