United States asks Russia to reconsider sales to Venezuela

The US Government urged Russia to think it over concerning sale of military aircraft to Venezuela, the US Department of State reported Tuesday, AP quoted.

"We have expressed our concern to the Russian Government and encouraged them to reconsider the sale," US Department of State Spokesman Tom Casey said about the deal amounting to USD 1 billion.

Casey recalled that the US administration told the Russian Government "repeatedly" that the Venezuelan purchase goes beyond its defensive needs and does not help hemispheric stability, Efe reported.

The official underscored that, bearing in mind that each aircraft to be bought by Venezuela costs USD 30-45 million, there is room to wonder about the Venezuelan Government true priorities.

Russian government authorities, he added, will necessarily take a decision, but they should know in advance the Washington position.

However, Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez, on official visit to Russia started Tuesday, expects to ink an agreement on provision of 60 Russian strike planes and choppers.

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