Zelenskyy discusses with US Defense Secretary Austin expansion of use of long-range weapons against russian military targets

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has discussed expanding the use of long-range weapons against russian military targets and increasing Ukraine's air defense capabilities with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, who made an unannounced visit to Kyiv.

Zelenskyy reported this on X, the Ukrainian News agency reports.

"During the meeting, we discussed the most important defense priorities, in particular, the air defense capabilities of Ukraine, preparations for the winter period and the expansion of the use of long-range weapons against Russian military facilities. In addition, we focused on efforts to increase the production of attack drones, cruise missiles, artillery shells and air defense systems," he said.

Zelenskyy thanked the U.S. for a new USD 400 million defense aid package for Ukraine, which includes ammunition, military equipment and weapons.

The President also said that Austin confirmed that the U.S. will continue to provide security support within the framework of the current defense agreement between the countries, as well as plans to convene a new meeting in the Rammstein format to coordinate further assistance with international partners.

Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of recent talks with U.S. President Joe Biden, during which they discussed the Ukraine Victory Plan and further efforts to strengthen Ukraine's defense.

Austin, in turn, wrote on the X network that he is visiting Ukraine for the fourth time as the U.S. Secretary of Defense, demonstrating that the United States, together with the international community, continues to support Ukraine.

As the Ukrainian News agency earlier reported, the U.S. Department of State previously announced that the US continues to cooperate with Ukraine regarding the Victory Plan, as well as other measures not included in the plan that will help Ukraine win on the battlefield.

On October 16, Zelenskyy presented the Victory Plan for Ukraine in the Verkhovna Rada.