The arrival of F-16 fighter jets in Ukraine marks a “new chapter” for the country’s Air Force in its conflict with Russia, President Volodymyr Zelensky said today. He confirmed that Western fighter jets have arrived in Kyiv.
Ukraine had requested F-16s from its allies since the start of the war to defend its skies from Russian missiles. These jets can provide air cover for ground troops, attack land targets, engage enemy aircraft, and track spy drones.
“We have held hundreds of meetings and negotiations to enhance our aviation and air defense capabilities,” Zelensky stated at an airbase near Kyiv. “We often heard it was impossible. Now it is a reality. F-16s are in Ukraine. I am proud of all our people who are mastering these jets and have already begun using them for our country.”
Zelensky expressed gratitude to partners, especially the first countries to accept Kyiv’s request.
“Thank you to Denmark, the Netherlands, and the United States. To all our partners, we appreciate your support. This is a new chapter for the Ukrainian Air Force. We have achieved a new standard in aviation with Western fighter jets,” he said.
Zelensky noted he could not comment on specific military missions or the exact number of F-16s now in Ukraine but added, “So far, the number available in Ukraine and the number of pilots already trained are insufficient.”
