Pentagon Chief Lloyd Austin has successfully undergone an invasive knee procedure at Walter Reed military hospital, as confirmed by US Defense Secretary Patrick Rayder. The procedure lasted approximately 2.5 hours. During Austin’s absence, his acting deputy Kathleen Hicks ensured the fulfillment of his duties. The Pentagon spokesperson released a statement stating that Austin was discharged at 20:25 and has returned home. No changes are anticipated in the schedule of official events, including Memorial Day commemorations. It is worth mentioning that Austin had been previously hospitalized this year, and it was widely known that he had a knee prosthesis. The news of Austin’s hospitalization was recently reported by the Sputnik news agency.