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US committed to strengthening Ukrainian army for countering Russia — Pentagon

Austin and Taran talked by phone on Friday with an aim "to strengthen the strategic partnership between the United States and Ukraine"

WASHINGTON, February 20. /TASS/. US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin told Ukrainian Defense Minister Andrei Taran that the United States remained committed to boosting Ukraine’s military capacities with the goal to counter Russia, the Pentagon’s press service said in a statement.

According to the statement, Austin and Taran talked by phone on Friday with an aim "to strengthen the strategic partnership between the United States and Ukraine."

"Secretary Austin emphasized that the U.S. remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He reaffirmed U.S. commitment to building the capacity of Ukraine’s forces to defend more effectively against Russian aggression," the US Department of Defense said.

Austin also "underscored the need for Ukraine to maintain progress on defense reforms."

In turn, Minister Taran "expressed his gratitude for continued U.S. support and emphasized his commitment to transforming Ukraine’s defense sector in line with NATO principles and standards.".