The US State Department has affirmed its recognition of Greece as “an indispensable NATO ally and partner,” but has not provided an update on the sale of the latest generation F-35 fighter planes produced by US defense giant Lockheed Martin.
“As a matter of policy, we do not publicly confirm or comment on proposed arms transfers until they have been formally notified to Congress,” responded an unnamed spokesperson to a written question from Hellas Journal website Tuesday.
In the same statement, the spokesperson added, “The United States views Greece as an indispensable NATO ally and partner. Together, our countries are advancing our shared goals for peace and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean, Western Balkans, Black Sea region, and beyond.”
Referring to the defense relationship between the US and Greece, the spokesperson said it “is stronger than ever. Our work together strengthens NATO and makes the region more secure.”
US Senator Robert Menendez, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said at the weekend that the approvals for the acquisition of F-35 fighter jets by Greece have been given, “so they are coming.”
During a press conference earlier Tuesday, Hellas Journal correspondent Michalis Ignatiou asked State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller about Menendez’s comments. Miller stated that he did not have any updates regarding that issue.
