This morning, Secretary Austin had his first engagement with Admiral Dong Jun, Minister of National Defense of the People's Republic of China, via teleconference from here at the Pentagon. The two leaders discussed U.S.-PRC defense relations and regional and global security issues.

During the discussion, Secretary Austin emphasized the importance of continuing to open lines of military-to-military communication between the U.S. and the People's Republic of China. He also underscored the importance of respect for high seas freedom of navigation guaranteed under international law, especially in the South China Sea, and reiterated that the United States will continue to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows.

Secretary Austin also discussed Russia's unprovoked war against Ukraine and expressed concerns about recent provocations from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. In addition, the Secretary reiterated that the United States remains committed to our longstanding One China policy, which is guided by the Taiwan Relations Act, the Three U.S.-China Joint Communiques, and the Six Assurances, and he reaffirmed the importance of peace and stability across the strait.

The department will continue to engage in active discussions with PRC counterparts about future engagements between defense and military officials at multiple levels, as agreed to by President Biden and PRC President Xi Jinping in November 2023. A full readout of today's call is available on Defense.gov.

Switching gears, Secretary Austin spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant last night to discuss the aftermath of Iran's unprecedented April 13 attacks which, as you know, U.S., Israeli, and partner forces thwarted in a combined defensive operation.

During the call, the Secretary reiterated steadfast U.S. support for Israel's defense and reaffirmed the strategic goal of regional stability. As you saw from our call readouts posted yesterday, Secretary Austin continues to communicate with leaders throughout the Middle East region and beyond to emphasize that while the United States does not seek escalation, we will continue to defend Israel and U.S. personnel.

Separately, Secretary Austin also spoke with Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov earlier today to discuss the situation on the ground and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to Ukraine's defense capabilities and fight for freedom from Russian aggression. A full readout will be posted today on the DOD website.

And then finally, looking ahead to tomorrow, Secretary Austin and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General C.Q. Brown Jr. will provide testimony before the House Appropriations Defense Subcommittee at 10 am on Capitol Hill regarding the Fiscal Year 2025 DOD budget request.

Watch the Defense Department Press Briefing with Air Force Major General Pat Ryder as he updates the news media on the latest developments at the Pentagon. Stay informed on important updates and decisions affecting national security and military operations. Tune in to gain valuable insights straight from the source.

Defense Now April - 2024
   • DN Apr. 2024  


Pentagon Press Briefing with Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder - 04/15/24

Film Credits: Defense.gov

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