Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin was hospitalized once again on Sunday afternoon, as confirmed by Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder. This hospitalization follows a previous secret stay in January, which had sparked significant criticism due to the lack of transparency about his health status.

On Sunday, Austin was taken to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center at around 2:20 p.m. due to symptoms indicative of an emergent bladder issue. Initially, he maintained his duties as Secretary of Defense, and key officials, including his deputy, the top U.S. military officer, White House staff, and others, were promptly informed. This quick notification marks a stark contrast to the situation in January when important national security officials were not immediately aware of his condition.

Following a series of tests, Austin was admitted to the critical care unit for further care and close monitoring, as stated by his physicians, Dr. John Maddox and Dr. Gregory Chesnut, in a late Sunday night statement. The duration of his hospital stay remains uncertain.

Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks has assumed Austin’s responsibilities. Around 5 p.m., Austin transferred his duties to Hicks, and officials, including the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. C. Q. Brown, the White House, and Congress, were updated accordingly.

Austin’s previous hospitalization was due to complications from a December 22 procedure for prostate cancer treatment. About a week after a non-invasive surgery for this condition, which was not disclosed to the president or other key officials, Austin experienced severe symptoms that led to his ICU admission on January 2. He was treated for a urinary tract infection without undergoing surgery or general anesthesia. The public, along with Congress and the president, were informed of his January hospitalization only after a few days.

Ryder initially stated that Deputy Secretary Hicks was ready to take over the Secretary’s functions and duties if necessary. He also mentioned that Austin had the necessary communication systems with him to perform his duties while in the hospital. Updates on Austin’s condition were promised to be provided as soon as possible.

Austin had only recently resumed his duties at the Pentagon on January 29, following his recovery at home since his January 15 discharge from Walter Reed. His doctors had expected him to make a full recovery from his previous health issues.

As of now, there is no indication that Austin’s current health issue is related to his previous prostate cancer operation or the complications that arose from it.