Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Meeting With Sweden's Minister for Defense Peter HultqvistSecretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Remarks Welcoming Peter[...]

Pentagon Press Secretary John F. Kirby provided the following readout:

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III welcomed Swedish Minister for Defence Peter Hultqvist to the Pentagon.

The leaders discussed the strength of the bilateral defense relationship and the historic decision from the Swedish Government to seek membership within the NATO Alliance. They underscored the importance of security and stability in Europe and transatlantic unity. The two looked forward to deepening bilateral cooperation.

Secretary Austin and Minister Hultqvist exchanged views on the Russia's unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine. Secretary Austin reaffirmed unwavering U.S. support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, including ongoing efforts by the United States, European Allies, and partners to provide Ukraine with the capabilities it needs to defend itself. Secretary Austin noted that the Swedish Government's decision to send assistance will help Ukraine stand firm in its fight against Russian invaders.