Russia has already lost strategically, operationally and tactically - General Milley

He said this at a briefing after the ninth meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in the Ramstein format.

"Ten days from now is a one year anniversary since Russia brutally, illegally and in a completely unprovoked way invaded the sovereign nation of Ukraine. Putin thought he could defeat Ukraine quickly, fracture the NATO alliance, and act with impunity. He was wrong,” the top US general said. 

“Ukraine remains free, they remain independent. NATO and this coalition has never been stronger, and Russia is now a global pariah. And the world remains inspired by Ukrainian bravery and resilience,” Milley said.

The general emphasized that Russia has already lost strategically, operationally and tactically.

"Russia has already lost. Russia is paying an enormous price on the battlefield. Until Putin ends its war of choice, the international community will continue to support Ukraine with equipment, capabilities and means to defend itself. We are collectively supporting Ukraine's ability to defend its territory, protect its citizens and liberate the occupied areas. 

In the face of barbaric invasion, Ukrainians remain resilient. Ukrainians are united for a single purpose – to expel the Russian forces from their territory and to defend themselves," Milley emphasized.

• On February 14, the 9th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in the Ramstein format took place in Brussels. Ukraine's Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov, who is participating in the meeting, said the day before that the 9th Ramstein meeting would have on its agenda the issue of supplying Ukraine with combat aircraft.

• Before the Ramstein meeting, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin promised to aid Ukraine in a counteroffensive in the spring. He also listed the countries that are preparing to provide Ukraine with Leopard 2 main battle tanks or have made a commitment to do so.