Attributed to Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Patrick Ryder:
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke by phone yesterday with his Italian counterpart, Minister of Defense Guido Crosetto, regarding the United States' and Italy's unwavering commitment to continue helping Ukraine defend itself from Russia's unprovoked and unlawful war. Both leaders agreed that Allies and partners must maintain unity and continue coordination efforts through the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. The two leaders also discussed ongoing security cooperation in the Middle East and in the Red Sea, as well as Italy's Presidency this year of the G7.