Kirby Reacts to Ukraine News, Helicopter Crash

Kirby Reacts to Ukraine News, Helicopter Crash
John Kirby, Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council in the White House, speaks during a press briefing at the White House on Jan. 12, 2023. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images
The Associated Press
Updated:

White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Wednesday that the issue of air defense of Ukraine will be discussed when U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin visits the Ukraine Contact Group later this week.

“I’m not aware of any assessment of a specific number of of Patriot batteries that are required by Ukraine,” Kirby said. “What we are aware of is that air defense remains a priority.”