Biden to Blame for Ukraine’s Failed Counteroffensive – John Bolton - Global Research
Global ResearchAug 02, 2023
Ukrainian Airforce: Don't Expect F-16s Before Year's End
story
Image copyright: [via Wikimedia Commons]
The Facts
Despite Ukraine's hopes of receiving F-16s this year, the country's airforce spokesman has ruled out acquiring the advanced American fighter jet until 2024. "It is already obvious that we will not be able to protect Ukraine with F-16 fighters this autumn and winter," Yurii Ihnat said in a televised broadcast late on Wednesday.
He added: "We had high hopes for this aircraft, believing it would become part of air defense and be able to protect us from Russian missile and drone terrorism." Nevertheless, plans to train Ukrainian pilots on the planes had "moved forward," he said.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The US is doing everything it can to get F-16s in the hands of Ukraine as soon as possible. However, it's a complicated process that not only involves training pilots but also ensuring that the maintenance and logistics processes are well established. Nonetheless, the US is moving swiftly.
Establishment-critical narrative
Russia's overwhelming air superiority has already caused Ukraine substantial problems in its counteroffensive. The longer that the US and international partners delay, the more Ukraine will suffer and the more emboldened Russian Pres. Putin will feel.
