What's happened
Lloyd Austin, 70, returns to work remotely after hospitalization for bladder issue
Why it matters
The health of the US Defense Secretary is significant due to its impact on national security and foreign policy decisions.
What the papers say
The New York Times reports that Austin's hospitalization has led to the cancellation of his trip to Brussels, while The Independent notes that this is his third hospitalization following his prostate cancer diagnosis. AP News highlights that Austin is expected to host a virtual meeting of about 50 countries to coordinate military aid for Ukraine. France 24 and NY Post provide similar information about Austin's hospitalization and the cancellation of his trip to Brussels.
How we got here
Lloyd Austin has had ongoing health issues since undergoing surgery in December to treat prostate cancer. He was admitted to the hospital on Sunday for a bladder issue and underwent a non-surgical procedure on Monday.
More on these topics
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Lloyd James Austin III is a retired four-star general of the United States Army. He was the 12th commander of United States Central Command. Austin was the first Black commander to head the organization.
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The Pentagon is the headquarters building of the United States Department of Defense. As a symbol of the U.S. military, the phrase The Pentagon is also often used as a metonym for the Department of Defense and its leadership.
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Austin is the capital city of the U.S. state of Texas, as well as the seat and largest city of Travis County, with portions extending into Hays and Williamson counties.