Protecting Ukrainian skies, increasing industrial capacity: Austin outlines key subjects of 12th Ramstein

The statement was published on the Pentagon's website.

According to Austin, training of the Ukrainian military on F-16 fighter jets will begin in the coming weeks.

"This will further strengthen and improve the capabilities of the Ukrainian Air Force in the long term. And it will complement our short-term and medium-term security agreements," the Pentagon chief said.

He also praised the work of the air defense system, which shoots down enemy targets over Ukraine.

"Ukrainians now have the Patriot air-defense system on their side—provided by the United States, Germany, and the Netherlands. And Ukraine has been shooting down Russian missiles with precision and skill. The Patriot saves lives. And so do air-defense systems like the IRIS-T and NASAMS that this group has also delivered. We’ve helped Ukraine defend its skies. And we won’t let up," Austin said.

According to him, strengthening Ukraine's air defense capabilities will be at the center of discussions on May 25. The meeting will also discuss ways to further accelerate industrial production of critical systems.

• On May 21, US President Joe Biden approved Ukrainian training on F-16s.