US pledges $2.3bn to support Ukrainians on the frontline after Russia takes more ground
The US has pledged a further $2.3bn (£1.8bn) in military aid for Ukraine, which will provide an urgently needed air defence capability.
The latest security assistance package will also include artillery and anti-tank weapons to support Ukraine's armed forces on the frontline against the invading Russian army.
Ukrainian defence minister Rustem Umerov said: "We expressed gratitude for a new $2.3bn aid package that includes anti-tank weapons, interceptors, ammunition for the Patriot and other air defence systems."
Pentagon press secretary Air Force Major General Pat Ryder said: "Russia continues to attempt to take ground and the Ukrainians have done a good job of holding the line.
"The Russians took advantage of the break in US funding to Ukraine to try and take ground from the country.
"While they took some territory, it was at enormous cost, and they really did not accomplish that much in terms of the amount of geography.
"So what we see now is the Ukrainians, in large part empowered by the security assistance that's been rushed in, continue to hold the line.
"We will continue to support them in their efforts to defend themselves."
Following a meeting with Mr Austin, Ukrainian defence minister Rustem Umerov said: "Air defence is our priority and the main focus of this meeting.
"We discussed in detail with Mr Austin the provision of additional systems to Ukraine to protect our cities and critical infrastructure.
"Grateful to Germany, Romania and the USA for announcing the provision of new batteries.
"We are also in constant communication with other allies on this issue."
The latest commitment from the US comes as Nato allies agreed to fund military aid for Ukraine with €40bn ($43bn or £33.8m) next year.
The financial pledge is part of a broader Ukraine package that Nato leaders will agree when they gather for their Washington summit next week.
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