United States Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin hosted the Minister of Defense of Georgia, Juansher Burchuladze. In a statement released by the Pentagon, Lloyd Austin emphasized the partnership between Georgia and the United States of America, bilateral relations in the field of defense, and Georgia's contribution to global security. He noted that the USA will continue to support Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Nikoloz Khatiashvili, foreign policy research fellow and international secretary at Geocase, assessed the statement made by the US Secretary of Defense in support of Georgia and noted: 

"Amid the current geopolitical changes, we heard extremely important messages from the US Secretary of Defense. The firm support of our strategic partner was confirmed again towards Georgia’s defense and security and the status of our country as the main ally in the region. Today, more than ever, Georgia needs to strengthen strategic cooperation with the US in the field of defense and security, because the unpredictable international environment and new challenges require maximum adaptation and flexibility, as well as strengthening of defense capabilities. It is in this process that the US has the potential to further strengthen Georgia and provide help in accomplishing its tasks. A special role is assigned to the cooperation with the American partners in the direction of Black Sea security, because increasing the involvement of the US ensures the stability and security of the Black Sea region, as well as strengthening the resilience of the countries of the region against existing threats. In order to successfully conduct this process, it will be necessary for the US to develop a Black Sea security strategy, where Georgia will also play a major role."