Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III engaged in a conversation with Ukrainian Minister of Defence Rustem Umerov, focusing on battlefield developments and the status of U.S. security assistance to Ukraine. The dialogue addressed the involvement of North Korean soldiers in combat against Ukraine, marking a notable escalation by Russia in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder conveyed that "Secretary Austin reaffirmed President Biden's commitment to surge security assistance to Ukraine and provided an update on the unprecedented scope and pace of U.S. efforts to provide Ukraine with the capabilities it needs to fight Russian aggression."

Both leaders committed to maintaining close communication as the situation evolves.