Ukraine should decide whether to use F-16s for strikes on Russia - Czech President
Photo: Petr Pavel, President of Czechia (Getty Images)
Ukraine should use the weapons provided by Western countries as it sees fit, including F-16 fighter jets, stated Czech President Petr Pavel.
"If, according to Article 51 of the UN Charter, we want to help Ukraine defend itself against aggression by providing material supplies rather than direct involvement in combat, it is up to Ukraine to decide how to use these supplies of weapons," Pavel stated.
He reminded that if Russia had not initiated its invasion of Ukraine, Ukrainian defenders would not need to target any objectives in Russia.
"The main card is in the hands of President Putin. He can end the war immediately," the Czech President added.
Background
At the beginning of August, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that partners had delivered the first batch of F-16 fighter jets to Ukrainian defenders.
Denmark and the Netherlands, which promised such aircraft to Ukraine, have allowed strikes on Russian territory using these jets.
Belgium, which also plans to supply F-16s, has prohibited Ukraine from using its fighters for attacks on Russian territory.
