USS Theodore Roosevelt CSG deploys from the Middle East to the Indo-Pacific
US continues support to Ukraine
Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder has announced that the USS Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group is en route to the Indo-Pacific region following the completion of its mission in the US Central Command area of operation.
This move comes as the US maintains a robust military presence in the Middle East, including the USS Abraham Lincoln (CSG), destroyers, a Marine Expeditionary Unit, F-22 Raptor aircraft, and additional naval and air force assets.
The Nimitz-class nuclear-powered USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier and its substantial allied naval assets were deployed to the volatile Middle East to act as a deterrent to deter explosive conflict in the region after Hamas militants launched their unprecedented attack against Israel on October 7, 2023, and as Iran and its proxies in the area also stepped up their aggression against Israel.
Ryder emphasised the United States’ ongoing commitment to de-escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly in the wake of the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas militants against Israel.
The US is working closely with regional partners to avert a broader conflict and secure a cease-fire that would facilitate a hostage deal and bring an end to the war in Gaza, said Ryder.
Ukraine-Russia conflict
Regarding the conflict in Ukraine, Ryder confirmed that US policy on long-range weapons remains unchanged. The US continues to support Ukraine’s defensive capabilities, ensuring that Ukrainian forces can conduct cross-border counterfire against Russian attacks. Ryder underscored the importance of equipping Ukraine to defend its sovereignty and reclaim occupied territories.
Ryder reiterated the US stance that a victory for Ukraine is crucial: “We want to see Ukraine win in this conflict.”
He noted US President Joe Biden’s position that a Russian victory would embolden Russian President Vladimir Putin to pursue further aggression.
Ryder also referenced US Secretary of Defence Lloyd J. Austin’s recent comments at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, highlighting that no single weapon system would alter the course of the Ukraine-Russia war. According to Austin, success will come from leveraging all available capabilities to strengthen Ukraine’s position at the negotiating table.
Featured image: A US C-2A Greyhound aircraft lands on the USS Theodore Roosevelt flight deck on July 22, 2024. Credit: US Navy
