US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin “emphasized the need for Ukraine to support progress on defense reforms”
According to this statement, Austin and Taran held a conversation with the aim of “strengthening the strategic partnership between the United States and Ukraine”.
“Minister Austin stressed that the United States continues to firmly support Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He reiterated the United States’ commitment to building up the capabilities of the [Armed] forces of Ukraine to more effectively defend against Russian aggression”, – the document states.
Austin also “stressed the need for Ukraine to maintain progress in defense reform”. Taran, in turn, thanked Washington for its support and “underlined the commitment to transform the defense sector of Ukraine in accordance with NATO principles and standards”.