Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced new F-16 fighter jets arrived in Ukraine on Sunday, Aug. 4. These jets are the first to be added to their fleet, which is significant since Zelenskyy has long been asking allied countries to supply this type of fighter jet for Ukraine in its fight against Russia.
Zelenskyy spoke about the jets during a special Armed Forces Day event. The jets, decorated with Ukraine’s symbols, were on display at the event and two flew overhead as he spoke.
Zelenskyy said they will help protect Ukraine’s skies from Russian missiles and aircraft, however, they won’t be near the frontlines as there are too few of them and Russian defense systems can shoot them down.
Zelenskyy also mentioned Ukraine is working with neighboring countries and NATO to find other ways to better defend against Russian missiles. He hopes this will lead to a coalition of Western countries working together against Russia.
With the delivery of such high-power vessels, some have warned it could escalate tensions between Russia and the West.
Ukraine has suggested it may store these F-16 fighter jets in other countries to protect them from being targeted if held in Ukraine. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has already said Moscow would consider launching strikes at facilities in NATO countries if they host the F-16 fighter jets used in Ukraine.
