It’s an honor and a privilege to serve as our country’s 28th Secretary of Defense, and I’m especially proud to be the first African American to hold the position. Let’s get to work.
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Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III
@SecDef
28th United States Secretary of Defense
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III’s posts
Proud and honored to be sworn in today by and ready to represent the great men and women of the Department of Defense. Let’s get to work!
To everyone on the force: I'm proud to be back on the team.
Russia is waging a war of choice to indulge the ambitions of one man. Ukraine is fighting a war of necessity to defend it democracy, it’s sovereignty, and it citizens.
Ukraine's hospitals have been bombed. Their citizens have been executed. Their children have been traumatized. And yet, despite all that, they have done a magnificent job defending their sovereignty. Ukraine’s valor and skill will go down in military history.
Today, I met with senior leaders to discuss extremism in the military. As a first step, I'm ordering a stand down to occur over the next 60 days so each service, each command and each unit can have a deeper conversation about this issue. It comes down to leadership. Everyone’s.
Today, we lost an American hero. Charles McGee, Brigadier General and one of the last surviving Tuskegee Airman, passed at the age of 102. While I am saddened by his loss, I'm also incredibly grateful for his sacrifice, his legacy, and his character. Rest in peace, General.
I tested positive this morning for COVID-19. I requested the test today after exhibiting symptoms while at home on leave. My symptoms are mild, and I am following my physician’s directions. 1/7
Yesterday, I ordered a comprehensive review of the sexual harassment prevention efforts within the U.S. military. As I said in my order, we all must do more, and we cannot be afraid to get creative.
Earlier this evening, I visited with troops who were deployed to the U.S. Capitol following the recent attack. I’m so grateful for their dedication during such a difficult time, and I made it clear to them we would do everything we can to support them.
Thank you, , for checking in with our troops in Kabul and on the USS Nimitz. Means a lot to us all.
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Every year service members around the world gather to watch the Super Bowl — and tonight, I called into watch parties in Kabul and on the USS Nimitz to thank them for their service. We are forever in debt to those who sacrifice so much to keep us safe.
This is what unity looks like.
Today, I gathered defense ministers of nearly 50 countries to discuss the latest battlefield developments in Ukraine 🇺🇦, and to work together on how we can continue to support Ukraine today and over the long haul. A few examples of our progress:
I am enormously grateful for the service and the sacrifices of those who broke barriers before me—and although I may be the first African American Secretary of Defense, it’s my hope that I won’t be the last.
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Today’s gathering wouldn’t be possible without the leadership of my friend Minister . These 40+ nations are all here today because of the remarkable job Ukraine has done defending itself. Their valor and skill will go down in military history.
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It's been nearly 55 years since the late crashed into Truc Bach lake, before spending the next five-and-a-half years as a POW in Hoa Lo prison. Visiting this marker earlier today was certainly a sobering and humbling experience.
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. and I visited Kyiv yesterday to directly demonstrate the United States' strong support for the Ukrainian Government and the incredibly brave Ukrainian people. We felt it was an important moment to be there — in person — a chance to have face to face conversations.
Last week, I voiced my support of ' executive order to allow all qualified Americans to serve in the U.S. military, regardless of their gender identity. This week, we're putting the first steps of our plan into action.
We just kicked off a historic meeting — more than 40 countries gathered together to help Ukraine win the fight against Russia's unjust invasion. Our goal is to leave here with a common, transparent understanding of Ukraine's short-term and long-term security requirements.
Wheels down in Berlin. I look forward to meeting with 🇩🇪 German Minister of Defense Pistorius and Federal Minister Schmidt, to discuss our shared defense priorities and enhanced cooperation among democracies.
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So far, we've sent 4 gray tails to India, containing 1m Rapid Diagnostic Tests, 545 Oxygen Concentrators, 1,600,300 N95 masks, 457 Oxygen cylinders, 440 regulators, 220 pulse oximeters and 1 Deployable Ox. Concentration System. It's been a heroic effort from all involved.
Today we announced additional Ukraine 🇺🇦 security assistance worth up to $400M w/ a mix of critical battlefield capabilities to help Ukraine defend their homeland. Alongside our int’l Allies & partners, we stand united in our unwavering support of Ukraine’s self-defense.
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The security assistance to Ukraine 🇺🇦 continues.
Today’s package is tailored to meet Ukraine’s immediate needs, providing more of the systems and equipment the Ukrainians have been using so effectively on the battlefield.
Honored to have welcomed President Zelenskyy to the Pentagon today and discuss outcomes from this week’s Ukraine Defense Contact Group. Together with allies & partners, we’re committed to supporting Ukraine’s fight to defend its sovereignty, while reinforcing future deterrence.
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We have provided security assistance to Ukraine at record speed, and the whole world can see the difference that’s making on the battlefield.
Putin never imagined that the world would rally behind Ukraine so swiftly and surely.
155 years ago, Cathay Williams disguised herself as a man so she could enlist with the 38th Infantry in the 13th Army Corps. This #BlackHistoryMonth, I'm thinking about her trailblazing service.
Before kicking off our agenda, I was very pleased to meet with my good friend and Ukrainian 🇺🇦 counterpart, Minister . This contact group – a gathering of nearly 50 nations – is continued proof the world is united behind you.
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It’s always a pleasure meeting with my 🇺🇦 Ukrainian counterpart & friend, Minister . We’re proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with you, our partners & allies to support Ukraine’s self-defense. A collective of nearly 50 nations of goodwill are united behind you.
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Thrilled to be here in India. The breadth of cooperation between our two nations reflects the significance of our major defense partnership, as we work together to address the most pressing challenges facing the Indo-Pacific region.
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They say you learn something new every day. Well, today I'm learning about Twitter.
We just announced another Ukraine 🇺🇦 security assistance package.
It includes a mix of capabilities — some new, some the Ukrainians have been using very effectively. As Russia’s unprovoked invasion enters its sixth month, our commitment to Ukraine remains unwavering.
These 13 men and women made the ultimate sacrifice so that others could live. They were and will be forever remembered as heroes. My heart and my thoughts are with their families, especially today. They, too, have made the ultimate sacrifice.
Just landed at in Germany, where tomorrow I’ll host the next in person Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting. These dozens of nations coming together to meet in person is proof of the world’s unwavering commitment to our Ukrainian friends.
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This morning, I had the pleasure of speaking with Ukrainian troops training in the U.S. who are returning home to Ukraine today. Their bravery and skill are amazing. I made clear the U.S. will continue to provide them with the assistance they need.
On Saturday, I’m embarking on my first overseas trip as Secretary of Defense. I’ll meet with my counterparts and other officials to discuss the importance of our alliances and partnerships, and together we'll reinforce the U.S. commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
I’m here at where tomorrow I will be hosting the Ukraine Defense Contact Group with more than 40 allies & partner nations to continue our important work towards supporting Ukraine’s most urgent security assistance needs.
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We just announced our single largest Ukrainian 🇺🇦 security assistance package to date.
$1 Billion worth of ammunition, weapons, and equipment — the types of which the Ukrainian people are using so effectively to defend their country.
Trans rights are human rights, and on this #TransDayOfVisibility , I’m pleased to announce we’ve updated DoD policy on the open service of transgender individuals. The update reinforces our prior decision to allow recruitment, retention, and care of qualified trans individuals.
Enjoyed my first call with my South Korean counterpart, Minister Suh Wook. The U.S.-ROK Alliance is among our most combined and capable military alliances, a linchpin to regional security. I look forward to working with him to make it even stronger.
Today, we announced additional security assistance for Ukraine. This will continue to bolster Ukraine’s battlefield abilities against Russia’s unprovoked war of aggression.
The United States will continue to support Ukraine 🇺🇦 for as long as it takes.
Wheels up en route to Germany where I’ll host the 15th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. I’ll meet with coalition partners from nearly 50 countries to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine, security assistance, and to reinforce our support for Ukraine in its…
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Today, I'm thinking about Octavius Valentine Catto and other African-Americans who helped paved the way for me and so many other leaders in the military community.
It will be impossible to replace Gen. Colin Powell. He was a tremendous personal friend and mentor to me, and there’s a hole in my heart right now as I think about his loss. My thoughts and prayers today are with his family, and I want them to know I will miss him dearly.
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On behalf of the men and women of the , I express my deepest condolences to the loved ones and teammates of all those killed and wounded in Kabul today. Full statement below:
Gen Milley and I are laser focused on the 🇺🇸 US’ unwavering support for Ukraine. Our allies in the UDCG are united and committed to continuing the urgent work necessary for Ukraine’s security assistance needs.
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The vaccines work and will remain a military medical requirement for our workforce. I continue to encourage everyone eligible for a booster shot to get one. This remains a readiness issue. 7/7
President , it’s an honor to welcome you to an in-person meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group here in Brussels.
The nearly 50 nations participating in today’s UDCG stand united with you and the people of Ukraine 🇺🇦 as you fight to defend your country.
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It’s always a pleasure to meet with my good friend and 🇺🇦 Ukrainian counterpart, . The 50+ nations participating in the UDCG stand united with you in this fight for Ukraine’s sovereignty and self-defense.
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This is what unity looks like! Nearly 50 countries joined together at for the fifth meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. I am extremely proud of the progress on the discussion to intensify our efforts to support Ukraine and strengthen our alliance.
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It’s always a pleasure to speak with my good friend & 🇺🇦 counterpart . Over the past year, members of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group have provided tremendous capabilities to Ukraine. We will support them for as long as it takes.
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Right now, a C-5M Super Galaxy and a C-17 Globemaster III are en route to India from . They’re carrying oxygen cylinders/regulators, rapid diagnostic kits, N95 masks, and pulse oximeters. Thanks to for the supplies & to all involved in the effort.
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Wheels down at Ramstein Air Base, Germany.
Tomorrow I’ll host the 15th Ukraine Defense Contact Group. This coalition of countries are coming together at a critical time, and underscores the unwavering resolve of the international community to aid Ukraine’s efforts to defend…
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Security assistance for 🇺🇦 is a smart investment in our national security. It helps to prevent a larger conflict in the region and deter potential aggression elsewhere, while strengthening our defense industrial base.
Terrific to speak with today, the first call I’ve made in the job. Reiterated the steadfast commitment of the U.S. to the Alliance and our appreciation for the teamwork and relevance our allies bring to missions around the world. #WeAreNATO
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Spoke with US Secretary of Defence @LloydAustin & congratulated him on his confirmation. Great discussion about the values we share & the challenges we face. I look forward to working closely with him to strenghten the bond between Europe & North America through #NATO.
The security assistance to Ukraine 🇺🇦 continues.
Today's $2.1 billion USAI package underscores our commitment to Ukraine's defense by continuing to provide additional capacity over the long term.
I spent this week in Brussels working with Allies & partners on immediate & long-term security needs for Ukraine 🇺🇦. We heard some great security assistance announcements from Germany, Spain, Denmark, Norway, Canada & more. And yesterday, we announced our latest package:
Walking amongst the sacred grounds of Normandy American Cemetery, where brave souls rest, we pay tribute to their sacrifice, courage, and unwavering commitment to freedom.
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Our Armed Forces are at their best when they represent the talents of our entire population, regardless of gender identity. I fully support 's direction today that all transgender individuals who wish to serve and can meet the appropriate standards shall be able to do so.
Wheels down in Brussels. I look forward to continuing the important work towards supporting Ukraine’s security assistance needs, as well as meeting with my counterparts.
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I’m returning to India to meet with key leaders for discussions about strengthening our Major Defense Partnership.
Together, we’re advancing a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
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I continue to be incredibly proud of our service members assisting on the front lines of the COVID-19 vaccination operation. Because of their hard work, we just passed the incredible milestone of 500,000 shots in arms in less than a month at supported sites.
Today I spoke with my counterparts from Canada 🇨🇦, France 🇫🇷, Germany 🇩🇪, Poland 🇵🇱, and the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 to discuss the situation in Russia. The United States will stay in close coordination with our Allies and partners as the situation continues to develop.…
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The United States is steadfast in our commitment to helping Ukraine 🇺🇦 address its immediate and long-term security needs. Friday’s assistance package provides more of the systems and equipment the Ukrainians have been using so effectively to defend their country.
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Wheels up at en route to 🇧🇪 Begium for the ninth meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, and meetings with fellow heads of defense. The UDCG is committed to ensuring the defense and sovereignty of the Ukrainian people.
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Our commitment to Ukraine is a commitment to lasting security in Europe and beyond.
As the Ukraine Defense Contact Group convenes again today, our alliance remains united—now and for the long haul.
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Had a great first call with Defense Minister . We discussed the resolute and resilient nature of the U.S.-Japan Alliance & joint efforts to maintain a free & open Indo-Pacific. Kishi-san, I look forward to working with you.
Had a great call with the Minister of Defence of India, . We affirmed our commitment to bilateral cooperation and pledged to sustain momentum in growing defense cooperation. Looking forward to a productive relationship.
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Spoke with my US counterpart, @SecDef Austin & conveyed my warm wishes on his appointment.
We reiterated our firm commitment to deepen India-US defence cooperation. We exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest to strengthen our strategic partnership.
I couldn't be more pleased to welcome Dr. Kathleen Hicks as the 35th Deputy Secretary of Defense, and I'm especially proud to be working with the first woman to fill the role. Welcome to the team, @kath_hicks.
The work continues. It never stops. Our servicemembers are working around the clock to make sure the Ukrainian people have the equipment they need to defend their country.
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Members of the 305th Aerial Port Squadron load munition packages bound for Ukraine 
at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.
at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.
Estonian Prime Minister ’ efforts to rally support for 🇺🇦 Ukraine have been pivotal in the fight against Russian aggression. The DoD, , and the world see and salute your work.
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The United States will stand with Ukraine's 🇺🇦 brave defenders for as long as it takes.
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I was happy to meet with my 
colleague and great friend Lloyd Austin III @SecDef on the sidelines of the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue.
The Ukraine-US partnership is strong. We will continue working to ensure Ukraine's victory and to restore peace in Europe.
colleague and great friend Lloyd Austin III @SecDef on the sidelines of the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue.
The Ukraine-US partnership is strong. We will continue working to ensure Ukraine's victory and to restore peace in Europe.
I got a chance to meet with my friend before the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting. The United States, along with our Allies & partners, will continue to do everything in our power to help Ukraine deter Russia’s unjust & unprovoked invasion of their homeland.
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It’s difficult to think about #BlackHistoryMonth without thinking about Jackie Robinson. Beyond his contributions to baseball, Robinson also broke race barriers in the military.
Yesterday, I spoke with my good friend and Ukrainian🇺🇦 counterpart to condemn Russia’s sham referenda on Ukrainian territory and provide an update on U.S. security assistance, including our most recent commitment of an additional $1.1 billion dollars.
Meeting WWII veterans at Normandy on the anniversary of D-Day is an extraordinary privilege. Their valor and sacrifice shaped history, liberating nations and defending freedom.
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Yesterday, I directed all CO's and supervisors to select a date within the next 60 days to conduct a one day "stand-down" on extremism in the military. This is an opportunity for us to listen, learn, and try to find solutions -- and it's only a first step.
Just arrived in 🇪🇪 Estonia to meet with Prime Minister and Defense Minister . Looking forward to productive conversations with our close ally. #WeAreNATO
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As my doctor made clear to me, my fully vaccinated status — and the booster I received in early October — have rendered the infection much more mild than it would otherwise have been. And I am grateful for that. 6/7
Wheels down at in 🇩🇪 Germany for the 8th 🇺🇦 Ukraine defense contact group meeting. I'm looking forward to robust discussions on continued support of Ukraine’s self-defense, security issues facing U.S. allies & partners, & strengthening the alliance.
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It was great to sit down with Ukraine’s new Defense Minister at Ramstein. I look forward to working closely with Rustem and his team as Ukraine’s counteroffensive continues to make steady gains forward.
I called UK 🇬🇧 MoD Ben Wallace to reaffirm our defense relationship & the importance of transatlantic cooperation. Today’s call was a continuation of our discussion at the Pentagon last week, which covered a wide range of shared defense & security priorities, including Ukraine.
The security assistance to Ukraine 🇺🇦 continues, this time in the form of a $550m package including tens of thousands of rounds of artillery ammunition. We remain committed to providing Ukraine with the capabilities they need to defend their homeland.
"I have full confidence in your courage, devotion to duty, and skill in battle. We will accept nothing less than full victory."
- Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower, June 6, 1944.
#DDay
I spoke again today to to discuss the situation on the battlefield and 🇺🇦 Ukraine’s capability needs. I briefed him on my call May 13 call with Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu, and I reiterated our unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.
Wheels down in Brussels.
Ready to host the 13th Ukraine Defense Contact Group tomorrow as part of our continued effort to equip Ukraine with the capabilities & resources they need for the fight now.
We remain united in our resolve to support Ukraine 🇺🇦 for as long as it takes.
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I have witnessed the selflessness and patriotism of our servicemembers, civilians, and families firsthand, and couldn't be prouder of them.
If confirmed, it will be the honor of my lifetime to lead them with honor and integrity.
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SFC Alwyn Cashe is a modern day American Hero. In 2005, he saved six of his fellow soldiers after their vehicle struck an IED, despite suffering burns on 72% of his body. Last year, he was awarded the Medal of Honor, our nation's highest military decoration. #BlackHistoryMonth
I spoke by phone today with Russian Minister of Defense Sergey Shoygu, who requested a follow up call. I rejected any pretext for Russian escalation & reaffirmed the value of continued communication amid Russia’s unlawful & unjustified war against Ukraine.
Today's solemn anniversary is an opportunity for all who believe in freedom, rules, and sovereignty to recommit ourselves to supporting Ukraine's brave defenders.
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General Milley's leadership as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff has bolstered the capabilities and capacity of our tremendous joint force of Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Guardians. I want to thank him for his dedicated devotion to duty & for the sacrifices he and…
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#Juneteenth holds particular significance for our military. It marks the date in 1865 — 2+ years after the Emancipation Proclamation — when Union soldiers, led by Major General Granger, issued General Order No. 3, informing the people of Texas that "all slaves are free."
I enthusiastically support President Biden's nomination of Gen. Charles Q. Brown, Jr. as the 21st Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
He is an exceptional warfighter and strategic leader, his skill and judgment will be invaluable in this role, if confirmed.
I welcome congressional action tonight to avert an unnecessary and destructive government shutdown, but I also urge Congress to live up to America’s commitment to provide urgently-needed assistance to the people of Ukraine.
I’m back in Brussels for the 16th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in support of the international effort to equip Ukraine 🇺🇦 with the capabilities & resources they need to safeguard their citizens from Russian aggression.
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Wheels down in Brussels. I look forward to productive meetings at the UDCG and with my counterparts as we work together to support 🇺🇦 Ukraine’s fight to defend its sovereignty and to bolster our collective security as a NATO alliance.
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Today, we completed the U.S. military evacuation of civilians and the removal of all forces from Afghanistan. I'm deeply saddened that in the course of this historic evacuation we lost 13 of our own, along with so many others who were killed and wounded by cruel terrorists. (1/5)
Now that I’m back home from my Asia trip, I can’t help but think of all our servicewomen and men I met overseas. Whether you’re stationed in Asia, in Afghanistan, or anywhere else in the world, I couldn’t be more proud of the work you do. Thank you for your service to our nation.
My thoughts continue to be with the people of Israel. Today, in response to this Hamas attack on Israel, & following detailed discussions w/, I have directed several steps to strengthen DoD posture in the region to bolster regional deterrence efforts.…
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This year marks the 75th anniversary of relations between the U.S. and 🇵🇰 Pakistan. It was my pleasure to host Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, to the Pentagon where we discussed our long-standing defense partnership and areas of mutual interest.
