News and reports from the State Department.

The United States has announced a substantial new military aid package for Ukraine as part of ongoing efforts to support the country in its defense against Russian aggression.

Assistant Secretary for Energy Resources Geoffrey R. Pyatt is scheduled to visit the United Kingdom and France from December 3 to December 6.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed gratitude for the release of Tigran Gambaryan, head of financial crime compliance at Binance and a former U.S. federal agent, by the Nigerian government.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken engaged in a conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, as reported by Spokesperson Matthew Miller. The dialogue focused on the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, aiming to facilitate the return of civilians to their homes along the Israel-Lebanon border. Both parties acknowledged ongoing initiatives to support the Lebanese Armed Forces and emphasized the significance of international backing for UNIFIL.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken held a conversation with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot. According to Spokesperson Matthew Miller, the discussion focused on the ongoing situation in the Middle East. Both officials emphasized the importance of diplomatic efforts to enable citizens of Israel and Lebanon to return home.

Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Brian A. Nichols is set to visit Belize from October 5 to October 8. During his stay in Belmopan, Nichols will engage with Prime Minister John Briceño, Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca, and other senior government officials. The discussions will focus on security and inclusive economic prosperity both in Belize and the wider region.

Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez is set to travel to Portugal and Spain from October 6 to 9. His visit aims to engage with key partners across Europe on critical mineral supply chains while promoting trade and economic opportunities with the United States.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken held a conversation with Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. The discussion focused on several critical regional issues, as reported by Spokesperson Matthew Miller.

On October 4, the United States government extended its warm wishes to the people of Lesotho in celebration of their Independence Day and bicentennial. The U.S. acknowledged its partnership with the Kingdom of Lesotho, emphasizing collaboration on issues such as peace and security, economic growth, health, and democratic principles.

In a move to bolster educational ties, the Department of State is enhancing connections between African universities and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) exchange. This initiative aligns with National HBCU Week.

Julieta Valls Noyes, the Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM), has announced her retirement after nearly four decades in the United States Foreign Service. Her tenure is marked by significant contributions to humanitarian diplomacy and migration efforts.

The United States has announced a new humanitarian assistance package of nearly $157 million to aid populations affected by conflict in Lebanon and the surrounding region. This funding is intended to address both new and existing needs of internally displaced persons and refugee populations within Lebanon, as well as those fleeing to neighboring Syria.

After eight rounds of consultations, the United States and the Republic of Korea have reached a consensus on the proposed text of a new five-year Special Measures Agreement (SMA). This will be the 12th SMA once it is signed, concluded, and enters into force. The agreement is expected to be a significant accomplishment for both nations and aims to strengthen their alliance and shared defense.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken recently held a conversation with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, according to Spokesperson Matthew Miller. The discussion focused on the United States' ongoing support for Ukraine amidst its conflict with Russia.

The United States and the Republic of Gabon have issued a joint statement marking 64 years of diplomatic relations and outlining plans to enhance their partnership. The announcement emphasizes collaboration in economic, environmental, and security sectors.