VIDEO
Russia's War Against Ukraine
Ukraine’s wish list, which asked for boots, uniforms, body armour, and spare tires, went unfulfilled for more than two months according to the article, which refers to the original detailed request, which included other non-lethal equipment, such as night vision devices, Ukraine’s armed forces made to the United States and NATO.
According to the article, the US failure to assist Ukraine’s military explains why Kyiv has been outgunned by better-equipped pro-Russian insurgents. US and European officials say Kremlin-backed groups in Ukraine are supported and paid by Russian intelligence officers and special operations forces.
To date, the Obama administration has sent meals-ready-to-eat and has committed to enhance military training that the US provided before the crisis. The Obama administration has approved $18 million in military assistance, but has placed strict limitations on that funding.
US Republican Senator John McCain has for months advocated for sending arms to Ukraine, but his requests have fallen on deaf ears in Washington, D.C.
McCain, who visited Kyiv before protesters forced disgraced former President Viktor Yanukovych to flee to Russia, said US military equipment could improve the Ukrainian military’s morale and ensure that the Russians would have a real fight on their hands if they continue stirring up trouble, which they have.
The United States has not given military aid to Ukraine.
