Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to embark on a diplomatic trip to Brussels, Belgium, and Valletta, Malta, to engage in critical discussions surrounding transatlantic security and support for Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression. In Brussels, Blinken will participate in a NATO foreign ministers' meeting, where key topics will include bolstering support for Ukraine, enhancing cooperation with NATO's southern neighborhood partners, and preparing for the upcoming NATO summit in The Hague in 2025.

During the meeting, Blinken will reaffirm NATO's commitment to Ukraine's integration into the alliance, emphasizing that Ukraine's future lies within NATO. He will highlight the effectiveness of air defense systems supplied by the U.S. and its allies, which have successfully intercepted numerous Russian missiles and drones. The discussions will also focus on Ukraine's progress in military interoperability and necessary democratic and security reforms to strengthen its defense capabilities.

Following the NATO meeting, Blinken will attend the 31st OSCE Ministerial Council in Malta, where he will review the security landscape in the Euro-Atlantic and Eurasian regions. He plans to underscore U.S. support for the OSCE's initiatives in military, economic, environmental, and human security, while also addressing Russia's violations of international commitments, particularly in light of its actions in Ukraine.

Additionally, Blinken will meet with Maltese officials to express gratitude for their role in hosting the OSCE meeting and their leadership during their chairmanship. This trip underscores the U.S. commitment to international alliances and the ongoing support for Ukraine as it navigates its path toward NATO membership.