Ukraine should launch an inquiry into reports that Syrian rebels have Ukrainian weapons, a senior Ukrainian MP said on Tuesday.
The BBC said on Monday it has uncovered evidence that appears to suggest weapons intended for the Saudi military have been diverted to Syrian rebels. Three crates from an arms manufacturer - addressed to Saudi Arabia - were reportedly seen in a base being used by rebel fighters in the city of Aleppo.
The crates of ammunition found in an Aleppo mosque were made by a Ukrainian firm, Dastan, which specializes in naval weapons and missile complexes, the BBC said.
Anatoliy Kinakh, head of the parliamentary national defense and security committee’s defense-tech cooperation subcommittee, said Ukraine had a very effective arms export control system.
There has been no information to date about any unsanctioned Ukrainian arms supplies to Syria, he said.
However, the BBC report needs looking into, he added.
“In this situation, I’m sure, an impartial approach is called for. Everything should be carefully considered,” he said.
“After that, conclusions will be made.”
A BBC correspondent said it was unknown what was in the crates.
“But their presence clearly suggests that someone in the Gulf is actively helping the rebels fighting to overthrow President Bashar al-Assad,” he said.
