US Genl. welcomes Russia´s granting of transit rights into Afghanistan

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Source: CCTV.com | 02-09-2009 11:04

A US general said Russia's granting of transit rights to non-lethal US military supplies bound for Afghanistan will make it harder for militants to attack the American supply line.

US Brigadier General James C. McConville, deputy commanding general in charge of support for US troops in eastern Afghanistan, said Russia's  announcement on Saturday gives the US another opportunity to bring supplies into Afghanistan. (CCTV.com)

US Brigadier General James C. McConville, deputy commanding general in charge of support for US troops in eastern Afghanistan, said Russia's announcement on Saturday gives the US another opportunity to bring supplies into Afghanistan.

James C. McConville, US Brigadier General, said, "As agreements are made, that is why additional opportunities, of course that presents more challenges to those who are trying to stop these supplies that are coming to the country. And I am actually taking a look at the supplies we have on here, we have very robust supplies on hand right now."

Russia's decision follows Kyrgyzstan's announcement last week that it will close the Manas air base used by the US military for moving troops and supplies into Afghanistan.

The supply line into Afghanistan has come under increasing threat in the last few months. Some 75 per cent of US supplies comes through Pakistan, but militants have stepped up attacks on trucks bringing in food and fuel.

McConville insisted the US has not seen an effect on the supplies because of the attacks.

Editor:Zhang Pengfei