The top defense official in the United States, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, is anticipated to be discharged from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in the near term. A spokesperson for the Department of Defense indicated to reporters that Austin’s release from hospital care is expected to occur on February 13, framing the development as a positive step in the routine medical process for someone who has recently required hospital attention. The briefing provided on the matter emphasized a path back to regular duties and cited ongoing medical oversight during the discharge window. (Attribution: U.S. Department of Defense)
Officials conveyed that Austin would be discharged today, highlighting a continued plan to participate in critical international discussions. As part of the recovery plan, it was noted that the secretary intends to attend the Ukraine defense contact group meeting set to take place in Brussels on February 14, underscoring the ongoing U.S. commitment to allied coordination and deterrence in Europe. (Attribution: U.S. Department of Defense)
Earlier reports indicated that the secretary’s hospitalization arose from bladder-related health concerns requiring intensive medical attention. It was also stated that Deputy Secretary Kathleen Hicks would assume the formal duties and responsibilities of the secretary during the period in which Austin was hospitalized, ensuring continuity of leadership over ongoing defense operations and policy implementation. (Attribution: U.S. Department of Defense)
In related developments, records show that Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto was reported to be hospitalized due to chest pain and underwent coronary angiography in response to the situation. The health status of allied defense ministers remains a matter of public concern in those circles, particularly as both nations navigate evolving security challenges and strengthen cooperation through joint consultations and rapid decision-making channels. (Attribution: Italian and U.S. defense briefings)
Separately, statements from the administration have addressed constitutional considerations surrounding national governance and defense oversight. The discussions reflect ongoing debates about the constitutional responsibilities of the executive branch in relation to homeland security and defense policy, as well as the checks and balances that guide national security operations. (Attribution: White House briefings)