The US has spent $1.3 billion but it is not enough to help Ukraine "make peace"
Having spent $1.3 billion on Ukraine over the past five years, the US is not strong enough to help Ukraine achieve peace and join NATO.
Pentagon press secretary Eric Pahon announced that Washington has spent more than $1.3 billion on the Ukrainian military since 2014. The money has been spent on strengthening the Ukrainian military's capabilities and improving interaction with NATO.
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Javelin anti-tank system provided by the US to Ukraine. Photo: Shutterstock |
Mr. Eric Pahon added that Washington welcomes Kiev's desire to join this military alliance and fully supports Ukraine. "We strongly support the right of this country to freely choose its future and political direction without outside interference," - the Pentagon Secretary commented.
US Special Representative for Ukraine Kurt Volker recently stated that Washington remains committed to providing assistance to Ukraine and its military, including anti-tank systems. He even hinted that the US is considering expanding the types of aid, but in the form of lethal weapons sales to Ukraine: "We are also considering expanding weapons such as air defense and coastal defense."
In March, US Army General Curtis Scaparrotti also announced that the US could also enhance the sniper capabilities of the Ukrainian army. "Sniper systems, ammunition and perhaps targeting the Kerch Strait will also be considered for future naval systems updates," Mr. Scaparrotti said.
The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute reports research showing that the US is home to five of the world's 10 largest defense contractors.
US support for Ukraine especially in providing lethal weapons to the Ukrainian army is believed to worsen the existing crisis in the East of the country.
