By KYIV. Nov 8 (Interfax-Ukraine) – Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin discussed with newly appointed Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto further cooperation between Washington and Rome in providing military assistance to Ukraine, the Pentagon said.
"The two leaders reflected upon the close bilateral defense relationship between the United States and Italy, and discussed continued cooperation to support Ukraine, including air defense," the Pentagon said on its website on Tuesday night.
According to the statement, Austin welcomed Italy’s leadership and significant contribution to coalition operations around the world and thanked Crosetto for stationing U.S. troops in Italy.
In addition, the head of the Pentagon thanked his Italian counterpart for his commitment to supporting Italian security assistance "to help Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression."
"The two leaders agreed to maintain the close cooperation to advance the U.S.-Italy defense partnership," according to the statement.
