Ukraine should give preference in weapons purchases to countries providing most assistance
Ukraine's Ambassador to the United States Valeriy Chaly has said he thinks weapons purchases for the needs of Ukraine's Armed Forces from foreign governments should be based on priorities and show a preference for providing Ukraine with the most assistance.
"I don't want to be understood as saying that I favor only the United States… But when a country sets the task of re-arming and has limited funds, then it is necessary to set priorities. Those countries which provide us maximum assistance should have priority. And Ukraine's Armed Forces says that 98% of all assistance comes from the United States," the ambassador said during a Press Club XIII meeting of foreign diplomats in Ukraine in Kyiv on Monday.
Chaly added that he has already broached the issue with the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces.
He also expressed surprise that Ukraine purchased 55 Airbus helicopters from France.
"I would spend the amount we paid for helicopters on U.S. suppliers," the diplomat said.
