Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin Transfers Duties After Hospitalization for Bladder Issue

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin Hospitalized

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been admitted to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center after experiencing symptoms of an emergent bladder issue. The Pentagon announced that Austin was transferred to the critical care unit for a series of tests and evaluations.

Duties Assumed by Deputy Secretary of Defense

Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks has assumed the duties of the office while Austin is hospitalized.

Reassurance from the Pentagon

Despite the uncertainty of his hospital stay, the Pentagon reassured that the current bladder issue is not expected to affect his overall recovery. This recent health development comes after Austin's two-week hospitalization earlier this year due to complications from treatment for prostate cancer.

Notification and Confirmation

The White House, National Security Council, and Congress have been notified of Austin's hospitalization. The Office of the Secretary of Defense has confirmed the situation and directed further inquiries to the Pentagon.

Upcoming International Trip

Austin is scheduled for an international trip to Brussels, Belgium, for a meeting with the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, marking his first overseas trip since his initial hospitalization.