Ukraine's Armed Forces should be immediately provided with long-range artillery and F-16s - former US Ambassador to Ukraine

This was stated by former US Ambassador to Ukraine, now Director of the Atlantic Council's Eurasia Center, John Herbst, Ukrinform reports.

"The most important thing is to provide Ukraine with long-range artillery and F-16s," the former senior diplomat said.

He explained that with long-range firepower, Ukrainians could immediately stop the bloody massacre around Soledar and Bakhmut. In addition, the aircraft could ensure a successful counteroffensive by the Ukrainian Armed Forces or significantly hinder any expected Russian offensive.

Herbst also noted that, given the time required to train the F-16s, training for Ukrainian pilots should begin today.

"I think if the administration (in Washington - ed.) realized that it was in their own interests to help Ukraine defeat Putin quickly, they would do it," the former US ambassador emphasized.

Commenting on the mood in Congress to continue large-scale support for Ukraine - given the position of certain political groups, Herbst noted that "the isolationist wing of the Republican Party is weaker today than before the midterm elections." He emphasized that they (isolationists - ed.) are still a significant minority.

"I don't think they will be able to stop the aid," the expert added.

The former US ambassador to Ukraine also emphasized that the recent corruption scandals in Ukraine could theoretically have a "very negative" impact on the process of further US support.

"But I think President Zelenskyy and his government have handled it well," Herbst said.

He also expressed his expectations for the next steps in the fight against corruption in Ukraine, which he said Congress will obviously want to see in terms of oversight of the use of US aid.