U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin embarked on an unannounced visit to Kyiv on Monday, demonstrating a prominent effort to sustain financial aid and weapon provisions for Ukraine.

This commitment persists despite the strain on U.S. and international resources caused by the heightened global risks associated with the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Austin, who journeyed to Kyiv by train from Poland, held discussions with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, and was scheduled to meet with Chief of Staff Gen. Valerii Zaluzhnyi.

In Kyiv, Austin emphasized the significance of Ukraine’s resistance against Russia’s invasion, stating that it holds importance for the entire world, the Associated Press reports.

He affirmed that U.S. support for Ukraine would endure “for the long haul.”

Zelenskyy said Austin’s visit was “a very important signal for Ukraine.” “We count on your support,“ Zelenskyy said.

Written by B.C. Begley