U.S. General: Ukraine should have the opportunity to defend itself
The former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO forces in Europe, General Philip Breedlove, stated that Ukraine should have the opportunity to defend itself, Polskie Radio reported.
“Ukraine should be able to defend itself. This country should focus on domestic reforms. However, it spends money in support of a large Army in field conditions,” Breedlove said. According to him, separatist forces in Donbas continue to exert pressure on the demarcation line. This forces Ukraine to keep a very large Army in field condition for the defense. Moreover, it is costly for Ukraine and consumes a lot of energy.
Breedlove noted that the issue was not about offensive actions but the possibility to defend itself so that Ukraine becomes a hard nut for Russia to crack. Breedlove previously stated that the United States is ready to fight and defeat Russia in Europe if necessary. The retired four-star General provided the U.S. military and political leadership with recommendations on non-lethal and lethal assistance to Ukraine.
NATO’s delegation arrived in Ukraine last week. The purpose of its visit is Ukraine’s involvement in the planning and assessment of the Armed Forces.