Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and the French Minister of the Armed Forces Sébastien Lecornu met in Paris today on the heels of the 80th anniversary commemorations of the D-Day landings in Normandy. Both sides reflected on the values that bind the United States, France, and its Allies together at a critical juncture in European security.
Secretary Austin thanked Minister Lecornu for France's continued commitment to Ukraine's defense through its leadership role within the Ukraine Defense Contact Group's capability coalitions. He also reiterated the United States' unwavering support for Ukraine. The Secretary further welcomed France's close collaboration and synchronization with the United States on various initiatives to meet Ukraine's air defense and artillery needs, including on future security assistance to Ukraine.
In their meeting, the two principals also discussed the upcoming NATO Defense Ministerial and the roadmap to the NATO Summit in July. Both also emphasized mutual efforts to advance security and stability in the Indo-Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East.
Secretary Austin looks forward to welcoming Minister Lecornu in Washington, D.C. for the 75th NATO Summit in July.
