Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III emphasized the US’s commitment to ensuring NATO’s enduring strength during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at the Pentagon. Austin stated that NATO remains unwavering two years into Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and commended Stoltenberg for his leadership in keeping NATO united and resolute in facing the challenge.

The leaders discussed Sweden’s upcoming approval as the newest member of the alliance, following its expansion to Finland last year. They emphasized Austin’s commitment to maintaining the alliance’s readiness to defend and deter global security threats. He emphasized that NATO allies are providing unprecedented support to Ukraine, and that their support is not charity but an investment in their own security.

NATO leaders, Austin and Stoltenberg, have discussed ways to strengthen the alliance ahead of upcoming NATO defense ministers’ meetings in Brussels and a summit marking the 75th anniversary in Washington later this year. The discussions aim to ensure deterrence across theaters and domains. Austin expressed anticipation of frank discussions with allies about strengthening collective deterrence and defense.

The alliance is currently conducting its largest exercise since the end of the Cold War, Steadfast Defender 24, a six-month exercise involving large-scale multinational maneuvers across various locations. The exercise tests the alliance’s ability to deploy forces and execute defense plans approved at the Vilnius Summit last year.

US President Donald Trump and US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis are set to hold talks on the future of military cooperation in Jordan. The two leaders have condemned recent attacks on US forces, which resulted in the deaths of three US service members and wounded dozens more.They pledged to take all necessary actions to defend the US and its troops. President Trump expressed condolences for the casualties and emphasized the risks service members face in their pursuit of freedom.