U.S. Defense Secretary Austin Released from Hospital, Plans Ukraine Meeting
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been discharged from the hospital after receiving treatment for a bladder issue, the Pentagon announced on Tuesday.
Despite ongoing recovery from prostate cancer surgery, Austin intends to participate in a virtual Ukraine-related meeting scheduled for the following day.
This marks the second hospitalization for Austin this year, following a December surgery to address prostate cancer. Last month, he faced criticism for not disclosing his surgery and subsequent complications, triggering a political controversy. President Joe Biden himself was unaware of Austin's hospitalization until days later.
After addressing reporters last week about his recovery, Austin returned to Walter Reed National Medical Center on Sunday due to indications of a bladder issue, necessitating critical care. However, he has now resumed his full duties and functions after being released from the hospital on Tuesday afternoon.
Following doctors' advice, Austin will work remotely before returning to the Pentagon later this week. Despite his health challenges, he is expected to make a full recovery, according to statements from his doctors.
Although Austin's latest hospitalization led to the cancellation of a planned trip to NATO headquarters and an in-person Ukraine-related meeting, he remains committed to participating in the virtual Ukraine Defense Contact Group on Wednesday, delivering opening remarks.
The significance of Ukraine and NATO has intensified in U.S. political discourse, particularly in light of the upcoming presidential elections in November. Former President Donald Trump's recent remarks questioning NATO's defense commitments have sparked controversy, prompting President Biden to condemn such statements.
Biden also urged the top Republican in the House of Representatives to allow a vote on a Senate-passed $95.34 billion military aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. He emphasized that failure to approve Ukraine war funding would be seen as support for Russian President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine.
As political tensions escalate and diplomatic efforts continue, Austin's participation in the virtual meeting underscores the United States' commitment to addressing global security challenges and supporting its allies in the face of adversity.
