U.S. calls on Allies to lift restrictions on lethal aid supplies to Ukraine

That’s according to Assistant Secretary of Defense Laura Cooper who spoke at an online event "U.S. Defense and Security Engagement in the Black Sea Region," held by the Center for Strategic and International Studies, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

"The first thing I would mention is I would like to see all allies lift their restrictions on defensive lethal assistance," Cooper said.

She reminded that the United States had handed Javelin anti-tank systems to Ukraine and Georgia, which she said was a clear example of defensive lethal assistance capability provided by the U.S.

"We have a number of allies who have that as a restriction – some have it as a restriction in terms of their security assistance programs, but some also have it as a restriction in terms of their sales," the Pentagon spokeswoman said.

" I believe that Ukraine should be able to purchase the capabilities it needs to defend itself, so I’d like to see that restriction lifted," Cooper stressed.

At the same time, she noted that Ukraine continues to be the focus of U.S. attention so Washington will continue to provide defense assistance to Ukraine as the country needs to defend itself.

Cooper also reminded of the importance of reforms in defense and other areas, reaffirming U.S. support in their implementation.

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