Ukraine has lost one of its F-16 fighter jets recently delivered by Western allies during a Russian missile and drone attack, killing the pilot Col. Alexei “Moonfish” Mes, AP News reports.
This incident marks the first reported loss of an F-16 in Ukraine since their arrival and occurred as Ukraine intercepted several Russian missiles using these jets. The Ukrainian Defense Ministry is investigating the crash. Ukraine has received around six F-16s so far, with plans to receive over 60 more from NATO countries, but officials say they need 130 to counter Russia’s larger air force.
Ukraine is pushing for fewer restrictions on striking targets inside Russia, arguing that such actions could help end the war sooner. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to conduct drone attacks on Russian infrastructure, including oil depots, as part of its broader war efforts.
