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Immediate Release

Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Participation in NATO Defense Ministerial

Pentagon Press Secretary Todd Breasseale provided the following readout:

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III participated in a NATO Defense Ministerial June 15-16. With Allies and partners, the Secretary discussed Russia's indefensible and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine and the actions nations are taking individually and collectively to support Ukraine. The meeting featured close consultations on deterring Russian aggression against Alliance territory, and an exchange of views on the new transatlantic security environment. 

During his remarks, Secretary Austin highlighted the Alliance's unique ability to respond swiftly and resolutely, emphasizing the United States' ironclad commitment to collective security. He highlighted the meaningful progress made on deterrence and defense as a significant deliverable for the June summit. The Secretary also emphasized the need for NATO's continued military adaptation and adequate resourcing to confront current and future challenges.