NATO’s military commander, Gen. Philip M. Breedlove told about the open discussion of the official supplying arms to Ukrainian forces by the U.S.
“General Breedlove has repeatedly stated he supports the pursuit of a diplomatic solution as well as considering practical means of support to the government of Ukraine in its struggle against Russian-backed separatists,” the spokesman, Capt. Gregory L. Hicks of the Navy, said.
“A comprehensive approach is warranted, and we agree that defensive equipment and weapons should be part of that discussion.” the Pentagon official said.
That happens because Russian-backed separatists escalate the conflict in Ukraine in last weeks.
The supplying of lethal weapons to Ukraine is authorized by the Ukraine Freedom Support Act that was passed by The U.S. Congress in December last year and signed by U.S. President.
Barack Obama hasn’t decided yet to follow the act’s recommendations but in Washington doesn’t exclude such possibility. For example Secretary of State John Kerry and Susan E. Rice, Mr. Obama’s national security adviser support the idea of sending defensive weapons to solve the conflict in East Ukraine.
As the economic sanctions didn’t give the proper result and didn’t stop the Russian invasion into Ukraine the White House had to review the decision of only diplomatic support of Ukraine.
“Although our focus remains on pursuing a solution through diplomatic means, we are always evaluating other options that will help create space for a negotiated solution to the crisis,” said Bernadette Meehan, a spokeswoman for the National Security Council.
