Umerov discussed with Austin Ukraine's operations plan for 2024

Ukraine's Defense Minister Rustem Umerov and Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin discussed Ukraine's 2024 operations plan. A separate focus of the ministerial meeting was strengthening Ukraine's air defense.

This is reported with reference to the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine on Facebook.

"The parties discussed the strategic goals and plan of Ukraine’s operations for 2024. Separately, the ministers discussed the development of joint defense cooperation, attracting investment in the military-industrial complex," the statement said.

"We had an open and honest dialogue between the Ukrainian and American governments and companies about the localization of production in Ukraine, the current needs and capabilities of our countries, opportunities for cooperation, investment, and joint ventures," Umerov said.

The two ministers also discussed the continuation of US support for Ukraine. Umerov expressed hope that funding for 2024 would be approved.

"A separate focus is on strengthening air defense. This is especially important in winter," the Defense Ministry said.

Umerov and Austin also discussed the training of the Ukrainian army in accordance with NATO standards and the construction of fortifications.

As a reminder, the Ukrainian delegation headed by the Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak, and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov arrived in the United States. The Ukrainian delegation held meetings with U.S. lawmakers, government officials, and businesses.

In particular, the Pentagon said that Umerov and Austin held talks behind closed doors.

Author – Anastasiya Glotova, 07/12/2023