Zelenskyy meets Pentagon chief to discuss weapons and security assurances

Photo: President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Getty Images)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. They discussed arms supplies and security guarantees for Ukraine, according to Zelenskyy's statement on Telegram.

The meeting between the Ukrainian President and the Pentagon chief took place on the sidelines of the Asian security summit Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore.

They discussed Ukraine's defense needs, strengthening of the air defense system, the F-16 coalition, and the preparation of a bilateral security agreement.

"I thank President Biden for adopting an important decision regarding defensive strikes with American weapons on enemy territory to effectively counter Russian attempts to expand the combat zone," noted Zelenskyy.

Assistance to Ukraine from the United States

The United States is a leader in providing assistance to Ukraine. Washington offers financial and humanitarian aid, imposes sanctions against Russia and other countries aiding the aggressor.

The US has supplied artillery, anti-tank and anti-aircraft systems, long-range missiles, ammunition, tanks, and other weaponry to the Ukrainian army.

Additionally, the US recently allowed Ukraine to use the provided weapons to strike Russian territory. However, Washington has imposed restrictions. American weapons can be used in border regions of Russia to preempt or defend against attacks.