US Def Sec Austin Convenes Second Ukraine Contact Group Meeting

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has convened the second Ukraine Contact group meeting after the in-person format was introduced at the Rammstein Air Base in Germany last month.

• The Defence Secretary's opening remarks can be followed here: https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/...
• Austin introduces the meeting by saying that the war in Ukraine has entered a new phase. He says: 'We're here to help Ukraine for the long haul.'
• Representatives from 44 countries are attending the meeting, including delegates from new countries: Ireland and Austria.
• The meeting will coordinate new defence funding and training for the Ukrainian military.
• Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby previewed the meeting yesterday: 'The number of countries in the contact group is fluid. There were more than 40 countries at Ramstein and Kirby said more than 40 nations have responded for Monday's meeting with more expected.'