"Putin Won't Stop If He Is Successful In Ukraine", Says US Defence Chief

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin will not stop at Ukraine if he succeeds there.

Austin cited costly consequences for Russia in the conflict, with the nation having incurred a $211 billion expense and a potential $1.3 trillion economic growth loss by 2026. He reasserted US support for Ukraine during the ongoing war.

The stance was conveyed at the 20th Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting held at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, where Austin applauded nations supporting Ukraine. Over 50 country and organization representatives gathered to discuss aid and support for Ukraine's resistance.

Austin highlighted the devastating impact on the Russian military, with at least 315,000 troops killed or wounded. The Defense Secretary underscored Ukraine's brave defense and the innovation of allies in providing critical aid, including air defense and artillery ammunition.

Additionally, the US is contributing another $300 million in security assistance to Ukraine, facilitated by savings in replacing US capabilities sent to Ukraine. Austin is confident that a bipartisan congressional consensus will keep funding US aid to Ukraine.

The meeting also marked the inaugural session of the capability coalition leadership group, comprising several European nations, focused on coordinating future support efforts.