Russia rushes to advance ahead of Ukraine’s F-16s, claims Syrsky

Russia is intensifying its attacks on Ukrainian defenses to weaken their troops before Western aid, including F-16 fighters, arrives, according to Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrsky. In a Telegram announcement, Syrsky highlighted Russia’s offensive actions in various sectors in Donetsk, aiming to seize territories and undermine Ukrainian defense.

The fighting in the Pokrovsk front has been fierce, with Moscow’s forces closing in on vital supply routes. Syrsky emphasized that Russia’s objective is to deplete Ukrainian defenses before Western support arrives. The imminent arrival of F-16s and other military equipment from allies will shift the balance in Ukraine’s favor, challenging the Kremlin’s advances.

Syrsky revealed ongoing hostilities in different regions, calling for expedited Western military aid. Despite commitments from Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, and Belgium to provide F-16s, delayed deliveries have hindered Ukraine’s defense efforts. Prime Minister Alexander De Croo of Belgium pledged 30 jets by the end of 2024, but prohibited their use against Russia.