Lloyd Austin Photo: Leah Millis / Reuters
Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin has spoken about the situation on the frontline in Ukraine, noting that although Russia has some advantages in the war, the Kremlin is not “completely dominant” and is facing increasing challenges. In an interview with Bloomberg, Austin stressed that Russia has certain tactical advantages, but in the long run, it will have to pay a high price for its achievements.
Russia does not have an unconditional advantage
“There is a perception that Russia holds all the cards, but in reality, it does not dominate this war,” Lloyd Austin said, adding that even if Russia gets what it wants, it will result in significant losses for it in the future.
Kremlin faces new challenges
The Pentagon chief also noted that the Kremlin is increasingly seeking support from countries outside the main alliances, in particular, Russia has turned to North Korea and Iran for help in obtaining weapons and ammunition, as well as people to fight.
“They went to the DPRK and Iran to get aid, weapons and ammunition, and now people,” Austin said.
Uncertainty about peace talks
He also emphasised that this situation should be taken into account in any potential ceasefire agreements that could be reached by the new Donald Trump administration. However, he stressed that for the Kremlin, these issues create additional difficulties on the battlefield and make it harder to achieve permanent results.
Assistance to Ukraine and US strategic success
Austin also commented on the criticism that the current administration has no clear strategy for Ukraine. He believes that the United States helped Ukraine survive and defend its sovereign territory, and the support provided to Ukraine has proved to be strategically important for maintaining global stability.
“What the US did helped Ukraine defend its territory,” Austin said.
Putin failed to help Assad because of Ukraine
The Pentagon chief also noted that due to the large resources Vladimir Putin spends on the war in Ukraine, he was unable to help his ally, Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad, and would lose his presence in Syria and other African countries.
“Without access to a key naval base in Syria, Putin could lose his presence in African countries as well,” Austin concluded.
