Tuesday, 15 September 2009The United States is concerned over Venezuela's desire to build up arms, a State Department spokesman said Monday.
"We have concerns in general about Venezuela's stated desire to increase its arms buildup, which we think poses a serious challenge to stability in the Western Hemisphere," Ian Kelly told a briefing.
"What they are looking to purchase and what they are purchasing outpaces all other countries in South America. And of course, we're concerned about an arms race in the region," he said.
"We urge Venezuela to be transparent in its purchases and very clear about the purposes of these purchases," Kelly said. "And we're also very concerned that they put in place very clear procedures and safeguards that these arms are not diverted to any irregular or illegal organizations in the region."
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez announced plans on Sunday to create a multi-layered air defense network that will comprise Russian-made S-300, Buk-M2 and Pechora air defense systems to ensure the protection of Venezuelan air space and key infrastructure from various ranges, with the help of a Russian $2.2 bln loan secured last week.
The deal with Russia, struck during a visit to Moscow by Chavez last week, also includes the purchase of 92 T-72 main battle tanks and an undisclosed number of Smerch multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS).
Between 2005 and 2007, Moscow and Caracas signed 12 contracts worth more than $4.4 billion to supply arms to Venezuela, including fighter jets, helicopters and Kalashnikov assault rifles.
Chavez reiterated that the country plans to buy more weaponry from Russia over a possible increase in U.S. military personnel in neighboring Colombia and alleged U.S. plans to invade Venezuela and seize its oil fields. |
Tuesday, 15 September 2009
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