Washington, Oct 21 (UNI) US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin is visiting Ukraine on Monday to meet with Ukrainian leaders and reaffirm Washington's support for Kiev, the US Department of Defense said.

"Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III arrived in Ukraine today to meet with Ukrainian leaders and reiterate the support of the United States for Ukraine's fight for freedom," the statement said.

Austin will once again affirm the US commitment to providing Ukraine with everything necessary for combat operations, the Pentagon added.

Russia views the supply of weapons to Ukraine as an impediment to the peace process, arguing this makes NATO countries a party to the conflict. Russian senior military officials have warned that any shipments containing weapons for Ukraine will be considered legitimate targets for Russia.

UNI SPUTNIK GNK