U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has tested positive for Covid-19.
The Defense chief was found to have infected with the virus in a diagnostic test conducted on Sunday after he showed symptoms while at home on leave.
"My symptoms are mild, and I am following my physician's directions," Austin said in a statement.
He added that in keeping with those directions, and in accordance with CDC guidelines, he will quarantine at home for the next five days. "Stemming the spread of this virus, safeguarding our workforce and ensuring my own speedy and safe recovery remain my priorities. To the degree possible, I plan to attend virtually this coming week those key meetings and discussions required to inform my situational awareness and decision making. I will retain all authorities. Deputy Secretary Hicks will represent me as appropriate in other matters,' the statement says.
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June 12, 2026 17:14 ET Major central bank action was the focus this week in economic news. The European Central Bank became the first major central bank to move in response to the rising inflationary pressures in the backdrop of the conflict in the Middle East. In North America, the U.S. inflation and trade data as well as Canada’s central bank decision gained attention. The Chinese trade data was the main news in Asia.