Ukraine Summons Israeli Envoy Over Alleged Arms Deal With Russia
Ukraine Summons Israeli Envoy Over Alleged Arms Deal With Russia...
Ukraine's foreign ministry summoned Israel's ambassador on Tuesday following reports that Israeli-made weapons were being used by Russian forces in the war. The diplomatic move comes as Kyiv investigates claims that Moscow acquired Israeli drones through third-party channels.
The development has drawn attention in Washington, where U.S. officials are monitoring whether the alleged transfer violates Western sanctions. Secretary of State Antony Blinken previously warned allies against "indirect support" for Russia's war effort.
Israeli officials denied authorizing any weapons transfers to Russia. "Israel maintains strict export controls and stands with Ukraine," said Foreign Ministry spokesman David Siegel. Ukraine's government has requested detailed documentation from Israel about the origins of the equipment.
The summons follows weeks of escalating tensions between the two nations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy publicly criticized Israel last month for what he called insufficient military support compared to Western allies.
Pentagon officials confirmed the U.S. is reviewing intelligence about the alleged weapons transfer. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stated, "We expect all partners to uphold sanctions regimes" during a White House briefing on Monday.
The diplomatic incident comes as Congress debates additional Ukraine aid packages. Some Republican lawmakers have cited the reports to argue for stricter oversight of military assistance.
Analysts note the timing is particularly sensitive as Russia intensifies its spring offensive. Ukrainian forces reportedly encountered Israeli-designed surveillance drones during recent fighting in the Donbas region, according to battlefield reports verified by independent monitors.
Israel has walked a careful diplomatic line since Russia's 2022 invasion, maintaining relations with both Kyiv and Moscow. The country provides humanitarian aid to Ukraine but has resisted supplying lethal weapons, partly due to Russia's military presence in neighboring Syria.
The U.S. State Department declined to comment on potential sanctions but confirmed ongoing consultations with both governments. A senior official told reporters, "We're focused on ensuring all allies maintain united pressure against Russian aggression."
Ukrainian officials say they expect Israel's full cooperation in the investigation. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oleg Nikolenko stated, "Transparency about these weapons will demonstrate our partners' commitment to international law." The Israeli envoy is expected to provide additional information within 48 hours.
