In a statement distributed by the medical institution, it is indicated that during a regular check-up in early December 2023, Austin was diagnosed with prostate cancer requiring treatment.

Austin underwent surgery on December 22. The Pentagon chief underwent "minimally invasive" surgery. However, he developed complications after that, and Austin was hospitalized on January 1, 2024.

"The initial examination revealed a urinary tract infection," TASS quotes the text of the message.

Earlier it was reported that Austin was transferred from the intensive care unit, but he still remains in the hospital.