Rustem Umerov spoke with Lloyd Austin

Rustem Umerov spoke with Lloyd Austin during which he highlighted the importance of providing more air defence systems.

Ukrainian Minister of Defense Rustem Umerov said that he had a productive weekly call with the US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin.

Rustem Umerov expressed gratitude to Lloyd Austin for his continuous support and provided an update on recent russian missile attacks against Ukrainian cities.

“Highlighted the importance of providing more air defence systems and missiles for them,” Rustem Umerov said.

The Pentagon reported that Lloyd J. Austin III spoke with Rustem Umerov today to discuss recent developments on the battlefield, as well as the destructive impacts of Russia’s ruthless missile barrages on Ukraine’s cities and critical infrastructure.

Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout: ‘Secretary Austin and Minister Umerov discussed Ukraine’s requirements for additional artillery, air defense, and other capabilities and the urgent need for the National Security Supplemental to enable Ukraine’s continued fight against Russian aggression.’ 

The US Department of Defense also noted that the two leaders pledged to remain in close contact.