Ukraine Needs Tanks Before Russia Prepares a New Offensive – Markarova

Ukraine needs to get enough Western tanks before Russia prepares for a new offensive, which is expected this spring, as Ukraine's Ambassador to the United States Oksana Markarova said during an interview with CNN.

According to her, Ukraine needs Western tanks to be protected so that its military can maneuver, fire, and launch a counteroffensive to liberate Ukraine from Russian invaders.

When asked about the US government's argument that M1 Abrams tanks will be more difficult to operate and maintain and therefore less useful than German Leopards, she replied: "Of course we are consulting with our partners, 'What will be the most effective one? What can we get in large numbers, maintain on the battlefield, repair if necessary?'".

Markarova said that the Leopard 2 tanks, according to the allies, would be easier to maintain and repair, and they are available in Europe in sufficient quantities. The ambassador added that Ukraine needed an immediate supply of tanks, but only discussions were underway.

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