Lloyd Austin Announces New Aid in Ukraine Visit

U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin made an unannounced visit to Kyiv, marking his fourth trip to Ukraine, amid intensifying Russian military pressure and drone attacks on the capital. Austin's visit underscores the U.S.'s continuing support for Ukraine, as he announced a new $400 million security aid package, which follows another $425 million package announced last week. The support includes artillery, munitions, armored vehicles, and anti-tank weapons. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is pushing for his 'victory plan' that seeks Ukraine's NATO membership and the use of Western long-range missiles against Russian targets, though Western allies have been hesitant. The visit comes as Ukraine faces challenges on the eastern fronts, with Russian forces reclaiming territory, and concerns over the U.S. election's impact on military aid. Meanwhile, reports have emerged of North Korea potentially sending troops to aid Russia, although this remains unconfirmed.