US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin is set to travel to Europe next week, with official engagements in Sweden and Germany that will involve discussions with allied counterparts and senior government figures. The trip will also include participation in a meeting with senior officials from nearly 50 countries to review the situation in Ukraine, according to a Pentagon briefing.
In Stockholm, Sweden, the defense secretary is expected to discuss security issues of mutual interest and to meet with top Swedish defense and government officials. The visits aim to reinforce transatlantic cooperation on regional security and to assess ongoing defense and deterrence initiatives that support shared priorities in Northern Europe.
On April 21, in Germany, Austin will join General Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, to host the Western Contact Group on Military Aid to Ukraine. The discussions will focus on coordination of military assistance, ongoing crisis responses, and the tools needed to help Ukraine defend itself. The aim is to ensure that Kyiv has reliable, timely, and effective support as the conflict continues and as allies assess evolving needs on the ground.
Earlier this week, Austin spoke with the Prime Minister of Ukraine about the supply of air defense systems and artillery, along with training for Ukrainian forces. The talks highlighted ongoing efforts to bolster Ukrainian defense capabilities and to coordinate support with partners.
Ukrainian military intelligence leadership has emphasized the importance of steady progress in counteroffensive efforts. Officials noted that partners and taxpayers providing security assistance expect demonstrable results in terms of real-world impact and accountability for the resources invested by donor nations.