US, Netherlands and Czech Republic join efforts to deliver modern tanks to Ukraine - Austin

Lloyd Austin said this during a meeting of the Advisory Group on the Security of Ukraine at the Ramstein Air Base.

Austin also told about 7 countries that have either already handed over the promised equipment to Ukraine, or committed to sending them.

"We understand the role of this Contact Group — as a crucial forum to continue coordinating our enduring support with other nations of goodwill. For example, since our last Contact Group, seven countries have either delivered critical air-defense systems to Ukraine or committed to sending them. That will save the lives of innocent Ukrainian men, women, and children—and help the Ukrainian Armed Forces defend their skies,” he said. 

“The United States, the Netherlands, and the Czech Republic are working together to provide 90 overhauled T-72B tanks to Ukraine. And 45 of those tanks were part of our recent USAI package. Also, the next defense aid package is being discussed in the US," the minister added..

According to Austin, the world sees the success of the Armed Forces and should support Ukraine in the future.

 "We are also implementing an industrial program on behalf of Ukraine, involving the work of the Contact Group. We foresee an increase in support for Ukraine and will continue to train the military, as well as provide additional defense equipment. With our support, the Armed Forces of Ukraine are now able to defend their territory. We see what gains they are achieving, so we must help and support such courage," US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said.

Austin also added that the partners should do more than they can to meet the needs that are currently arising in Ukraine, in particular, to ensure the uninterrupted supply of electricity and heating.