U.S. Department of Defense assures Ukraine of support in security sector

09.04.2020 09:12

Ukrinform

The United States supports Ukraine in its efforts to strengthen the security and defense system against the backdrop of Russian aggression and calls on European allies to strengthen their role in this process.

The Pentagon said this in an official statement following a phone call between U.S. Defense Secretary Mark Esper and Ukrainian Defense Minister Andriy Taran on Wednesday, April 8.

"Secretary Esper congratulated Minister Taran on his recent appointment as Minister of Defense and reiterated U.S. support for building the capacity of Ukraine's forces to defend more effectively against Russian aggression," the Pentagon said.

According to the report, the phone call was held "to strengthen the strategic partnership between the United States and Ukraine and exchange perspectives on the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic crisis."

Secretary Esper also highlighted the need for European allies to enhance their support to the Ukraine security assistance mission.

Minister Taran, in turn, reaffirmed Ukraine's commitment to transforming Ukraine's defense sector in line with NATO principles and standards.

"Secretary Esper praised Ukraine's recent progress on defense reforms and encouraged Minister Taran to maintain Ukraine's momentum in support of a more secure and democratic Ukraine," the statement reads.