Kathmandu— The Russian Foreign Ministry has condemned a proposed arms transfer from Türkiye to Ukraine, warning that the deal will damage trust between Moscow and both Washington and Ankara. The United States State Department recently notified Congress of its intent to authorize the re-export of US-made weapons – including ATACMS missiles and multiple launch rocket systems – from Turkish stockpiles, valued at approximately $280 million. Russian officials argue that such deliveries prolong hostilities and implicate the US and NATO in the conflict, while also questioning the stated commitment to peaceful resolution.

Details of the Proposed Transfer

The planned transfer includes 70 M39 ATACMS tactical ballistic missiles, 12 M270 multiple-launch rocket systems, over 2,500 M26 rockets with cluster warheads, and 47,000 203mm cluster artillery shells. Because the weapons are of US origin, Washington’s authorization is required for their re-export from Türkiye. The State Department submitted the necessary documents to Congress on August 6th, initiating a 15-day review period during which either chamber can block the transfer with a joint resolution.

Russian Concerns and Accusations

Moscow views the arms transfer as contradictory to stated diplomatic efforts and has accused both Washington and Ankara of undermining trust. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova noted that Turkish officials had previously indicated they were avoiding deliveries of “lethal” weapons to Kiev. She questioned the motivations behind opening another “Pandora’s box” while claiming a role in resolving the Ukraine conflict, adding that the move could damage bilateral relations with both countries.

Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin spokesman, stated last month that Western arms supplies, military advisors and satellite intelligence provided to Kiev constitute “direct participation” in the war against Russia. Russian officials have also accused Ukrainian forces of using Western-supplied long-range weapons to target civilians, citing a June 2024 ATACMS strike on Sevastopol which they claim killed four people, including two children, and injured over 150.

Allegations of Targeting Civilian Infrastructure

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has asserted that NATO military specialists are providing intelligence and coordinating precision strikes in Ukraine. Moscow alleges these attacks have hit residential areas, energy facilities, schools, and hospitals. The Kremlin specifically pointed to the Sevastopol strike as evidence of direct US involvement in targeting and operation of the weapons.

Unless Congress intervenes, the authorization for the arms transfer is expected to take effect automatically after the 15-day review period concludes. Moscow has signaled it will continue to condemn such deliveries.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.