US Defense Secretary Affirms No War with Russia and Discusses Ukraine Aid
The head of the United States Department of Defense, Lloyd Austin, stated clearly in a conversation with the American edition of the Washington Post that the United States would not engage in war with Russia. The interview explored whether Washington is conducting a proxy conflict with Moscow and what the administration envisions as events unfolding in the near term.
During the interview, the secretary was asked if the United States is fighting a proxy war against the Russian Federation. His answer was direct and plain. He emphasized that Washington is not at war with Russia and does not intend to become involved in such a confrontation. This reassurance comes amid ongoing debate about the nature of U.S. support for Ukraine and how it might evolve in a broader strategic fight with Russia.
A key topic discussed was the situation should Ukraine’s counteroffensive not achieve its aims. In response, Austin underscored the United States commitment to Ukraine and the objective of ensuring Ukrainian forces succeed in their next major operation. He conveyed a intent to support Ukraine through its efforts, while reiterating that direct military engagement against Russia is not the purpose or plan of the U.S. government.
On another front, Russia’s comments on the evolving conflict were addressed by Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Zakharova had previously asserted that NATO has a significant role in events in Ukraine. She also claimed that North Atlantic Alliance members are attempting to portray themselves as not being party to the conflict, even as their actions influence the course of the war. The exchange highlights the high stakes and the competing narratives shaping Western and Russian positions in the ongoing crisis.
The interview reflects a broader message from Washington: while military assistance to Ukraine continues, there is a deliberate effort to avoid direct conflict with Russia. The Pentagon leadership stresses that providing material support, intelligence, and defensive capabilities to Ukraine is designed to bolster Kyiv rather than engage Moscow in a generalized war. Analysts note that this stance aims to deter escalation while preserving U.S. strategic interests in the region, a balance often described as necessary to prevent a wider conflict between major powers. Washington’s approach remains focused on assisting Ukrainian defense and sovereignty while insisting that open war with Russia is not the U.S. objective nor its operational plan, a point the secretary reiterated in the interview with the Washington Post.”