One of the strongest in Europe: Zelensky showed the F-16 and spoke about the "shield of Ukraine".

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the arrival of F-16 fighters in Ukraine. He announced this at an award ceremony on the Day of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Zelensky noted that this is a new stage in the development of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and thanked all the partners who helped in this project. The president also emphasized that the fighters are already in Ukraine and are performing tasks.

Zelensky also noted that during the war, our Air Force carried out twenty-two thousand combat sorties and increased its power. However, he stressed that Ukraine needs even more modern air defense systems to protect against Russian missiles and drones.

The president expressed gratitude to all the pilots, engineers, technical workers, and air defense fighters for their work and heroism. He emphasized the importance of their work for the defense of Ukraine and the lives of our people.

Let us remind you that Zelensky also thanked the Armed Forces for successful strikes on ships, refineries, logistics, and military airfields of the Russian Federation.