In a late Wednesday address, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized that Russia harbors no intentions of attacking NATO member states, including Poland, the Baltic states, and the Czech Republic. However, Putin issued a stark warning against the supply of F-16 fighters to Ukraine, asserting that Russian forces would shoot down such aircraft.
Putin's remarks come amidst heightened tensions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which has sparked the most significant crisis in Russia's relations with the West since the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962.
Addressing Russian air force pilots, Putin underscored Russia's commitment to avoiding aggression towards NATO countries, dismissing claims of potential attacks as "nonsense" and "drivel."
Regarding the promised delivery of F-16 fighters to Ukraine by Western allies, Putin asserted that such aircraft would not alter the situation on the battlefield. He warned that Russian forces would destroy F-16s, likening them to other military equipment used by Ukraine.
Moreover, Putin raised concerns about the possibility of F-16s carrying nuclear weapons, stating that if deployed from airfields in third countries, they would be considered legitimate targets by Russia.
Putin's statements came in response to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba's announcement that F-16s are expected to arrive in Ukraine in the coming months. Ukraine, engaged in a prolonged conflict with Russia for over two years, has long sought F-16s for military support.
Several NATO countries, including Belgium, Denmark, Norway, and the Netherlands, have pledged to donate F-16s to Ukraine, with a coalition of nations committing to assist in training Ukrainian pilots for their use.
As tensions persist, the international community closely watches developments in the region, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict. (ILKHA)