Russian warns of ‘huge risks’ if US gives F-16 jets to Ukraine.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Warns Against Possible Transfer of F-16 Jets to Ukraine

The possibility of Ukraine acquiring F-16 jets from Western allies has been met with an ominous warning from Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has long sought to acquire F-16s, but United States defense officials have repeatedly stated that it is not necessary. However, news of President Joe Biden supporting the training of Ukrainian pilots on fighter aircraft, including the F-16, has reached Russia.

Enormous Risks for Western Countries

Speaking at the 31st Assembly of the Council for Foreign and Defense Policy, Grushko said, “We can see that Western countries continue to stick to an escalation scenario, which carries enormous risks for them. In any case, we will take it into account when making plans. We have all the necessary means to achieve our goals.”

Training to Take Place in Coming Months

A senior administration official confirmed that the training of Ukrainian pilots on fighter aircraft, including the F-16, will take place in the coming months. The “coalition of countries participating in this effort will decide when to actually provide jets, how many we will provide, and who will provide them,” per the official. Already, two Ukrainian pilots have gone to Arizona to train via a simulator with the U.S. military.

What This Means for Ukraine and Western Allies

The possibility of Ukraine acquiring F-16 jets has been met with a warning from Russia, highlighting the potential risks for Western countries. However, the training of Ukrainian pilots on fighter aircraft, including the F-16, is set to take place in the coming months. This could have major ramifications for Ukraine and its relationship with Western allies.

• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has long sought to acquire F-16s from Western allies.
• United States defense officials have repeatedly stated that it is not necessary.
• Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko has warned against the possible transfer of F-16 jets to Ukraine.
• The training of Ukrainian pilots on fighter aircraft, including the F-16, is set to take place in the coming months.
• This could have major ramifications for Ukraine and its relationship with Western allies.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.