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Ukrainian Defense Minister Says Kyiv Receiving Weapons


Ukrainian Defense Minister Valeriy Heletey
Ukrainian Defense Minister Valeriy Heletey

Ukrainian Defense Minister Valeriy Heletey says that unnamed NATO member countries are delivering weapons to Kyiv to fight pro-Russian separatists.

Heletey said at a news conference in Kyiv on September 14 that he discussed weapons needs with NATO defense ministers at the alliance's summit in Wales on September 4-5.

NATO officials have said the organization will not send "lethal assistance" to Ukraine, although member states may do so.

Heletey said the weapons are needed to "stop" Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Ukraine and Western countries accuse Russia of sending troops and equipment to the insurgents in eastern Ukraine.

Russia denies the charges.

Heletey would not say who is providing Ukraine with weapons.

A nine-day cease-fire has been in effect in eastern Ukraine, where more than 2,600 people were killed in five months of fighting.

Based on reporting by Reuters, UNIAN, and Interfax

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