NATO begins deploying F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine amid rising tensions
Date
7/11/2024 9:39:46 AM
(MENAFN) During a NATO summit held in Washington, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Wednesday that NATO member countries have initiated the deployment of promised F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, in response to Ukraine's urgent calls to bolster its defense capabilities against Russia. Blinken confirmed that F-16 fighters from Denmark and the Netherlands are currently being sent to Ukraine, marking a significant step in NATO's support for Kyiv amid escalating geopolitical tensions.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed Blinken's announcement, stating that the arrival of these fighter jets will contribute to bringing "a just and lasting peace" closer to Ukraine. The commitment from NATO allies comes as a response to Ukraine's longstanding request for advanced Western military aircraft to enhance its defensive capabilities.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr also affirmed during the summit that Oslo will begin sending six American-made F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine later this year, underscoring NATO's coordinated effort to assist Ukraine in its defense strategy against potential threats.
The decision to send F-16s to Ukraine was initially approved by US President Joe Biden last August, despite earlier concerns about the training and operational readiness of Ukrainian forces with these advanced aircraft. Blinken emphasized that the deployment of these fighter jets serves as a clear message to Russian President Vladimir Putin, signaling NATO's firm stance against any further aggression towards Ukraine.
Blinken further articulated that a strong Ukraine is crucial for regional stability and reiterated that NATO's support aims to deter Russian actions that undermine peace and security in the region. The deployment of F-16s underscores NATO's commitment to strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities and ensuring its sovereignty amidst ongoing geopolitical challenges.
MENAFN11072024000045015682ID1108432414
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.