**US Military Support for Ukraine Important, Says Retired General**
Retired Lieutenant General Dan Caine said that the US should focus on providing military support to Ukraine. He told a Senate committee that European countries should also increase their share of support.
Caine was speaking about his nomination as chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff. He said that Washington’s security assistance helps Ukraine defend itself and improves its position at the negotiating table with Russia.
**US Must Not Alone Support Ukraine**
The general stressed that the US is only a part of the network of states supporting Ukraine’s defense. Some comments stand in contrast to former President Trump’s policies, as his new administration has not approved any new military packages for Ukraine.
**Russia Still a Threat**
Caine said that Russia’s conventional capabilities have been strained by its war against Ukraine. However, he warned about possible asymmetric activities below the “threshold of military conflict.”
The retired general also noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin remains committed to his war goals, including securing territorial gains and forcing Ukrainian neutrality.
**Ukraine Rejected Moscow’s Demands**
Moscow demanded Ukraine’s full withdrawal from four occupied regions and a ban on NATO accession. Ukraine has rejected these demands, saying they are not part of negotiations.
**More Sanctions on Russia**
The US is drawing up plans to exert additional pressure on both Kyiv and Moscow as the goal of a full ceasefire by April or May seems increasingly unlikely.
**Russia Launched Strikes in Eastern Ukraine**
Russian forces launched 15 strike drones against the eastern city of Kharkiv. Eight people, including three children, suffered from shock, but no physical injuries were reported.
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