Zelenskyy on F-16: After 18 months, jets are still not here
F-16 (getty images)
Ukraine had hoped that its military efforts would be bolstered by the arrival of F-16 fighter jets promised by allies this summer, but so far, Ukraine has yet to see them, citing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's interview with BBC.
"It’s been 18 months and the planes have not reached us," he said, noting his gratitude for the support that has been provided to Ukraine.
However, the president emphasized that new fighter jets are necessary to help Ukrainians counter Russian air dominance and "unblock the skies."
Previously, Zelenskyy had said that Ukraine needs at least 128 F-16 fighters to effectively compete with Russia in the skies.
Zelenskyy said at the Ronald Reagan Institute in Washington that a decision was for 10-20. Even if there were 50, it would still be nothing. He said Ukraine needs a fleet of 128 to defend itself.
Recently, Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans said that the jets would arrive in Ukraine soon.
Norway has also decided to deliver six F-16 fighters to Ukraine. The delivery of the jets will start this year.
David Arakhamia, head of the Servant of the People faction and a member of the national security, defense, and intelligence committee, said that Ukraine’s partners promised to provide more F-16s than pilots have been trained.
