Ukraine Unveils F-16 Fighter Jets Amid Ongoing Conflict

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy showcased newly arrived F-16 fighter jets in Ukraine, aimed at bolstering the country's defense against Russia. The event, held under tight security, highlighted the jets' importance in combating Russian missiles. NATO allies have committed to supplying more F-16s to strengthen Ukraine's air defense capabilities.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy showcased Ukraine's newly arrived F-16 fighter jets on Sunday, declaring the aircraft will significantly enhance the nation's defense against Russian aggression.

"These jets are in our sky, and today you see them," Zelenskyy stated, positioned in front of two jets while two others flew overhead. "It's good that they are here and that we can put them to use." He emphasized the need for neighboring countries to assist in defending Ukraine from Russian missiles. Despite potential concerns about escalating tensions, Zelenskyy suggested a NATO-Ukraine council as a platform for discussing coalition efforts to protect Ukrainian skies.

The display of two F-16 jets, marked with Ukraine's trident insignia and covered in camouflage netting, served as a dramatic backdrop for Zelenskyy's speech during Armed Forces Day. The event took place at a classified location to safeguard the jets from Russian attacks. "Since the beginning of this war, we have stressed the importance of protecting our skies from Russian missiles and aircraft," Zelenskyy asserted. "Now, with the arrival of the F-16s, we have a new reality. We made it happen."

While Ukraine might station some F-16s at foreign bases to shield them from potential Russian strikes, Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned Moscow may target facilities in NATO countries hosting the warplanes. Despite their age, the American-made F-16s have been the frontline combat jets of choice for NATO and various air forces globally for decades. Western allies like Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway have pledged over 60 F-16s to Ukraine in a gradual delivery process. The United States, under President Joe Biden's approval in August 2023, granted the deployment of used F-16s to Ukraine, although none will come directly from the US. Analysts note that while the F-16s will fortify Ukraine's military strength, they alone won't decisively alter the war's outcome.

Meanwhile, Russia continues to make incremental advances in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, steadily compelling Ukraine to cede territory.

(With inputs from agencies.)