U.S. will work with partners to begin training Ukrainian pilots on F-16s - Biden
U.S. President Joe Biden has said that the United States is ready to work with international partners to provide Ukraine with fourth-generation Western fighters and train Ukrainian pilots on these jets.
He said this at the United States Air Force Academy Class of 2023 Commencement Ceremony in Colorado on Thursday, June 1, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.
"Just a few weeks ago, I was with President Zelensky in Hiroshima at the G7. I told him that we'd work with our partners to begin training Ukrainian pilots in Europe on fourth-generation fighter aircraft, including the F-16, so Ukraine can defend itself today and in the future," Biden said.
He recalled that working with a coalition of more than 50 nations, the United States has delivered "historic security assistance" that has enabled Ukraine to defend itself.
Biden also called Ukrainians incredible people: average women and men fighting, giving their lives for their country and their families.
"The Ukrainian people's iron resolve to live in freedom will never be broken. […] And the American people's support for Ukraine will not waver. We've always stood up for democracies — always – always," Biden said.