Agreements with Russia are worth nothing, strong army and partners necessary - Poltorak

The Russian Federation continues its aggression against Ukraine and does not comply with agreements, Defense Minister Stepan Poltorak said at a meeting on Tuesday with representatives of the U.S. Congressmen William Flores and Andrew Harris.

As reported on the official website of Defense Ministry, Poltorak told the congressmen about facts of recorded attacks per day and for the year as a whole.

"We comply with the agreements. Ukraine’s experience, as well as the experience in Georgia [2008] and Syria [2015-2016] shows any agreement with Russia is worth nothing. In this situation we need to count on reformed and strong army, political and economic support from our partners and the continuation of the sanctions against the aggressor, "the minister said.

During the conversation the parties discussed the situation in Donbas, state of forces withdrawal, as well as the issue of granting a lethal weapon to Ukraine. Poltorak said that Ukraine appealed to NATO member states and the EU with requests of providing a lethal weapon.

In turn Flores assured the U.S. would continue supporting Ukraine both on the political arena and in providing practical assistance.

"The Americans are amazed by Ukrainians’ resistance and their desire for independence and European future. The U.S. Congress supports Ukraine on the legislative level, including in the maintenance issues and continuation of sanctions against Russia," he said.

During the meeting the sides also discussed issues concerning the urgent needs of the Ukrainian army to ensure current assistance that is provided and will be provided in the future by partners.