US Defense Secretary Austin’s First Public Appearance Since Dec 22

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin made his first public appearance since a secret hospitalization on December 22, 2023. Attending the monthly meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group via video conference, Austin expressed optimism about the new year and reassured continued support for a free, secure, and sovereign Ukraine. Emphasizing a global coalition against Putin’s aggression, Austin affirmed the United States’ commitment to assisting Ukraine in its fight for freedom. Austin conveyed his well-being and eagerness to return to the Pentagon soon.