Baltic states pledge Stingers and Javelins for Ukraine

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Latvia's Ministry of Defense, along with its counterparts in Estonia and Lithuania, said January 21 that it would provide military assistance to Ukraine in light of the current grave threat posed by Russian troop concentrations near the Ukrainian border. 

"In response to Russia's aggressive actions, Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia are united in their commitment to support Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Baltic States will continue to support Ukraine not only diplomatically and politically, but also by strengthening Ukraine's self-defense capabilities," a statement from the Latvian Defense Ministry said. 

"Given Russia's intensified military pressure on Ukraine and its borders, the Baltic states have decided to respond to Ukraine's needs and provide additional defense assistance. This assistance will further strengthen Ukraine's ability to protect its territory and population in the event of possible Russian aggression.

"By strengthening the military capabilities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Latvia and Lithuania will provide the 'Stinger' air defense missile system and the necessary equipment. Latvia will also send individual equipment and dry rations. In turn, Estonia will provide 'Javelin' anti-tank missile systems," the statement said. 

"Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania and their allies are cooperating to provide operational support to Ukraine in strengthening its defense... The Baltic states hope that Ukraine will not need to use this equipment and calls on the Russian Federation to stop its aggressive and irresponsible actions," the statement concluded.

The U.S.' export control regulations demand that countries receive State Department approval before sending U.S.-made weapons to third countries, with U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken swiftly approving the transfer while praising the Baltics saying: "We salute them for their longstanding support to Ukraine."

 

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