US defense chief reiterates maintaining presence in Baltics

By Burak Bir

LONDON (AA) - The US is enhancing its presence along NATO's eastern flank and is determined to continue to be a presence in the Baltics, the American defense secretary said Thursday.

"The United States remains steadfastly committed to the freedom and sovereignty of our Baltic Allies," Lloyd Austin said during a news conference in the Estonian capital of Tallinn.

He hailed Estonia's assistance and "tremendous leadership" in supporting Ukraine and noted the US stands united with Estonia to deter any threat to the two countries; shared security.

"So, I'm confident that our two proud democracies will work together to meet any challenge and together will continue to strengthen transatlantic security and to defend the rules-based international order that keeps us all safe," added Austin.

Touching on Estonia's defense investments, he said spending and procurement of new capabilities are "crucial" in deterring attacks against NATO.