F-16 for Ukraine: will be an investment of decade in Europe's security

Providing Ukraine with modern combat aircraft, in particular F-16s, would be the best investment in the long-term security of the European continent. This decision should be taken by the partners as soon as possible.

This is reported with reference to a statement by Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba at the meeting of the EU Council of Foreign Ministers.

"There are no rational arguments why Ukraine cannot get modern Western-type combat aircraft, and I am convinced that this decision will be made. Ukraine is the protector of Europe. Providing Ukraine with F-16 aircraft will be the best investment of this decade in the security of the European continent," Kuleba said.

The foreign minister is convinced that the European Union countries are capable of playing a leading role in making the decision to provide Ukraine with modern combat aircraft and thus demonstrate their strategic leadership.

"It is necessary to start training Ukrainian pilots on Western-type aircraft as soon as possible, so that when they are provided, we can use them immediately. This will save the lives of our soldiers and civilians and guarantee Ukraine's advantage over the enemy in the air," Kuleba emphasized.

He also noted that granting Ukraine F-16s and integration of its air and missile defense and neighboring EU countries would complete the formation of an infrastructure of peaceful European skies.

Earlier, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the discussion on the transfer of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine continues.

Author – Anastasiya Glotova, 24/04/2023