State Department stats that they in close contact with Ukraine regarding issue of weapons

Deputy Secretary of State Richard Verma commented on the possibility of future transfers of F-16 aircraft and long-range missiles to Ukraine in an interview with Ukrinform.

According to the diplomat, the purpose of his recent visit to Kyiv was, among other things, to assess security assistance and gain a better understanding of the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Verma noted that the United States has a thorough evaluation process to assess Ukraine's requirements in the field of weaponry when relevant requests are received.

"But I just look at what has been provided so far, and it's really heartening and impressive to me. And we are going to make sure that Ukraine can defend itself and win in this fight," emphasized Verma.

The American diplomat noted that the evaluation of certain defense requests from Ukraine is conducted promptly, without delay.

"I don't want to speak for people in the Pentagon or our system when those decisions are being made right now, but it is clear that we are very close to Ukrainian leaders, we know their needs (in terms of weaponry), and we will evaluate them because the fight continues," emphasized Verma.

He added that the United States is firmly committed to ensuring that Ukraine can regain all its territories.

As CNN reported earlier, the administration of President Joe Biden has signaled to European allies in recent weeks that the United States will not stand in the way of their supplying F-16 fighters to Ukraine.