US President Joe Biden announced at the G7 summit in Japan that he will support the training of Ukrainian pilots on fourth-generation fighter jets, including F-16s.
"This decision will strengthen the capabilities of the Ukrainian Air Force and represents joint support with U.S. allies and partners," Obama said.
According to a senior White House official, training will take place in the coming months and the coalition of countries will determine when and how the aircraft will be provided.
The delivery of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine is a significant indication by the United States and responds to Kiev's insistent request. For more than a year, Ukraine sought the backing of Western nations to counter the Russian invasion. However, until recently, Ukraine's international supporters had refused to provide military aid.
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte pledged to form an "international coalition" to support Ukraine with fighter jets.
During a meeting with Sunak in London, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was "optimistic" about the creation of a "coalition of jets" in the war with Russia.
In this line, the United Kingdom plans to open a flight school to train Ukrainian pilots, while French President Emmanuel Macron offered his support in terms of training, but ruled out sending warplanes directly to Kiev.
International collaboration in strengthening Ukraine's air capabilities demonstrates the solidarity and commitment of the G7 countries in supporting Ukraine in its confrontation with Russia.
This initiative, they say, will contribute to improving the air defense of the country invaded by Putin and will send a clear message to Russia about the unity and commitment of the international community in protecting Ukraine's sovereignty and security.
G7 leaders announce more sanctions against Russia
In a joint statement published after a meeting dedicated to Ukraine, the United States, Japan, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy and Canada announced measures to "deprive Russia of the technology, industrial equipment and services of the G7 that sustain its war machine" in Ukraine.
The leaders detailed their new pressure measures coinciding with the joint statement, while the EU member countries (Germany, France and Italy) prepare a new package of coordinated sanctions within the Twenty-seven and Japan plans to announce similar measures soon.
They also stressed in the text that it is not possible to achieve a "just peace" without the "complete and unconditional withdrawal" of Russian troops, and reaffirmed their commitment to the approaches to achieve peace made by the Ukrainian president.
With information from AFP
.DB
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