The Pentagon says it has intelligence indicating Russia is poised to deliver sophisticated multiple-launch rocket systems to its Ukraine-based supporters — a transaction that could happen Friday.
Pentagon spokesman Army Col. Steve Warren said Friday that Russia has so far delivered to Ukraine tanks, artillery and rocket systems.
Now, Russia is preparing to take the next step and provide pro-Russian separatists with even more dangerous weaponry, Col. Warren said.
“We have indications that the Russians intend to supply heavier and more sophisticated multiple-launch rocket systems in the very near future,” he said.
“I don’t have any information on specifically surface-to-air missile systems, but we’re very concerned with the quantity and capability of weapons flowing from Russia into the Ukrainian separatists’ hands.”
The news comes on the heels of a U.S. government announcement that Russian troops have been firing artillery at the Ukraine military.
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It remains unclear if Ukraine has participated in cross-border violence. Col. Warren said that, at this point, he is “not aware” of an artillery exchange between the two countries.
• Maggie Ybarra can be reached at mybarra@washingtontimes.com.
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