US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the transfer of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine to strengthen their defenses against Russian forces at the NATO 75th anniversary summit. The first shipment of over 60 F-16 jets from Denmark and the Netherlands underscores President Joe Biden’s commitment to providing advanced weapons to President Volodymyr Zelensky’s government, who seeks decisive support from the US and Europe.
Blinken emphasized the importance of ensuring Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russian aggression, signaling a united front from NATO against President Vladimir Putin. This move follows Biden’s promise in 2023 to provide F-16s to Ukraine and the introduction of a new air defense system for Kiev.
Since the start of Russia’s military operation in Ukraine in 2022, the US has provided $51.4 billion in military aid to Kiev, making it the top recipient of American weapons.