Today, I welcomed my 🇫🇮 counterpart to discuss Finland’s integration into NATO, our strong bilateral defense relationship, and our shared commitment to supporting Ukraine and regional security. Together, we are stronger together and unwavering in our dedication.

We convened the 22nd meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group today. We are delivering urgently needed assistance and this coalition continues to step up to meet 🇺🇦’s most urgent needs. Ukraine’s fight matters to us all and we are determined to ensure Ukraine’s success.

LIVE: Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Lloyd J. Austin III delivers opening remarks at a virtual Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting. x.com/i/broadcasts/1…

I spoke to Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant today to discuss the ongoing hostage negotiations and the need to increase humanitarian assistance into Gaza via all land crossings. I also discussed our collaboration with the United Nations to establish a maritime corridor to

I spoke with Slovak Minister of Defense and Deputy Prime Minister Robert Kalinak to condemn the heinous attack on Prime Minister Fico and extend my deepest sympathies for him and the Slovak people.

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We have taken unprecedented steps to tackle sexual assault & sexual harassment in the military. The FY23 Annual Report on Sexual Assault in the Military demonstrates we’re making progress, but we know we have far more work to do. We owe it to our Service members to get this

I spoke with Egypt’s Defense Minister Zaki today to reiterate U.S. support for Egypt’s security and to express appreciation for Egypt’s critical efforts to facilitate humanitarian aid to Gaza and to contain the current conflict.  Egypt is a long-standing, strategic partner of the

On May 13, I met with 🇨🇦 Minister Blair and discussed our shared defense priorities. We affirmed our longstanding defense partnership, and discussed Middle East and Indo-Pacific security, NORAD modernization, defense spending, and the situation in Haiti. We agreed to continue

I spoke with my Lithuanian counterpart Laurynus Kasčiūnas today to reaffirm our bilateral commitment to NATO’s collective defense & unshakeable support to Ukraine. I thanked Lithuanian MOD 🇱🇹 for his continued leadership in ensuring a credible, modern defense force on NATO’s

During Asian American, Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, we take time to recognize the vital contributions of AA & NHPI service members, DoD civilians, and military families. Generation after generation, AA & NHPI communities continue to strengthen the

To South Carolina State University’s Class of 2024: the nation needs your gifts, resilience, and your service.

It was a privilege to deliver the Commencement address for SC State University this year.

Yesterday, we announced additional security assistance to meet Ukraine’s critical security and defense needs. We’ll continue to work with our Allies and partners to ensure Ukraine receives the capabilities it needs to fight Russian aggression.

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The Future Soldier Prep Course opens doors for those who want to serve. In South Carolina, I met some recruits who want to improve themselves and serve honorably in our all-volunteer force. It was great to thank them for their dedication to serving our Nation.

Congressman Clyburn, it was an honor to be with you at your alma mater, South Carolina State University.  

I thank you for everything you have done for SC State University and our democracy.

Today, I administered the oath of enlistment to the newest troops in America’s military at Fort Jackson, South Carolina.  

Welcome to the greatest team on Earth.

We’re proud to have you in our ranks.

For nearly 130 years, South Carolina State University has produced the skilled leaders that our country needs. They teach excellence and open doors of opportunity.  

Today, I had the honor of delivering the Commencement address for SC State University’s Class of 2024.

LIVE: Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Lloyd J. Austin III gives the commencement address at the SC State University spring graduation. x.com/i/broadcasts/1…

South Carolina State University’s Army ROTC has produced more than 2,000 U.S. military officers—their history stands proud and strong.  

It was great to meet with some of SC State’s ROTC cadets—young men and women who have chosen to serve their country.

Today, I met with my 🇩🇪 counterpart Boris Pistorius. German partnership in support of Ukraine and within the NATO Alliance is critical – always important to exchange views with a close Ally. #WeAreNATO

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I’m headed to Orangeburg, South Carolina today to deliver the Commencement address for South Carolina State University. In South Carolina, I’ll also meet with recruits and service members at Fort Jackson.