Russia demands answers from US and Türkiye over weapons for Ukraine
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova (photo: Getty Images)
Moscow has reacted to reports of possible large-scale deliveries of US weapons to Ukraine through Türkiye. Russian Foreign Ministry said it wants Washington and Ankara to provide explanations regarding the circumstances and terms of such deliveries.
The ministry has asked the United States and Türkiye about plans for large-scale deliveries of US weapons to Ukraine through Turkish territory.
According to Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow considers the circumstances and conditions of possible US weapons deliveries through Türkiye to be highly controversial.
Moscow threatens worsening relations
Zakharova said new weapons deliveries to Ukraine could seriously harm Russia's relations with the United States and Türkiye.
The Russian Foreign Ministry also claimed that Washington's and Ankara's use of peace rhetoric alongside possible weapons deliveries to Ukraine allegedly undermines mutual trust.
"Attempts by the United States and Türkiye to use peace rhetoric while simultaneously supplying weapons to Ukraine will inevitably undermine mutual trust," the ministry said.
It called on the United States and Türkiye to reconsider their plans to provide weapons to Ukraine.
At the same time, the information provided does not specify the exact amount of weapons involved or when deliveries could take place. Russia's Foreign Ministry linked its statement to information released by the US Congress regarding the possible transfer to Ukraine of US weapons currently located in Turkey.
Context of statement
Nearly a week ago, the US Department of State released documents regarding the transfer to Ukraine of M270 launchers, ATACMS missiles, as well as cluster munitions and artillery shells.
The weapons are reportedly planned to be transferred through several private companies: Türkiye's MKE, ASFAT, and ARCA Savunma; Bulgaria's VTIC International; and US-based Pansophico and Patriot Defense Group.
