US reaction to oil decision

Kirby answered questions from reporters at the online press conference.

Regarding the production cut decision of the OPEC+ group countries, Kirby said: “We do not believe that production cuts are reasonable at this time, given the uncertainty of the market.” saying.

Noting that oil prices have fallen significantly compared to last year, Kirby said they are focusing on prices, not barrels, and will continue to work on the realm of lowering prices for American consumers.

Kirby, who did not go into details of the diplomatic talks with Saudi Arabia on this issue, noted that, on the other hand, they conveyed their position that these cuts were not correct. Kirby stressed that even if they don’t agree on everything, Saudi Arabia is a strategic partner and they work together on many issues.

ADDITIONAL HELP TO UKRAINE

Regarding the Russia-Ukraine War, Kirby said that the fierce fighting of the Ukrainians in Bahmut continues. Reiterating his view that even if Bahmut falls, it will not strategically affect the course of the war, Kirby also stated that they will announce an additional military aid package to Ukraine this week.

Kirby would not confirm media reports that the high-altitude intelligence balloon, which purportedly belonged to China and was shot down on February 4, was gathering information from military areas, but said it was not surprising that the balloon had this capability. .

Stating that they are closely monitoring the situation regarding possible protests against Donald Trump, who is expected to appear in New York court tomorrow, Kirby said they are in contact with the proper authorities.

Kirby explained that Evan Gershkovic, who works as a reporter in The Wall Street Journal’s Moscow bureau, was arrested on “nonsensical charges” and said they will do everything in their power to free the journalist.

SYRIA

Kirby, when asked about Syria, stated that nobody is interested in normalizing relations with the regime’s leader, Bashar Assad, and said that nothing has changed in the situation of US soldiers in this country.

Explaining that US soldiers are legally operating in Syria to protect national security interests and that the US president has the necessary legal authority to keep soldiers here, Kirby said that this situation has not changed.