Ukraine Loses First Western-Donated F-16 Fighter Jet in Russian Missile Interception Operation
Ukraine has suffered the loss of a Western-donated F-16 fighter jet for the first time, following a crash during operations to intercept a massive Russian missile and drone attack. The incident claimed the life of one of Ukraine's most experienced pilots, Colonel Alexei “Moonfish” Mes, a prominent figure in the campaign to secure these jets from Western allies.
The crash occurred on Monday amid a significant Russian air assault, during which four Russian missiles were successfully intercepted by F-16s. Colonel Mes, who had been instrumental in lobbying for F-16 support, tragically lost his life in the process.
Colonel Mes had previously traveled to the United States in 2022, where he met with senior members of Congress to advocate for the supply of F-16s to Ukraine. His efforts were part of a broader push by Kyiv to strengthen its air capabilities in the face of ongoing Russian aggression.
In related developments, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and Ukraine have intensified their calls for Kyiv to be granted permission to strike deeper into Russian territory. Officials argue that imposing restrictions on long-range missile use limits the effectiveness of the weaponry provided by Western allies.
Speaking in Brussels, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, alongside Ukraine’s foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba, emphasized the need for unrestricted use of the weaponry supplied to Ukraine. “The weaponry that we are providing to Ukraine has to have full use, and the restrictions have to be lifted in order for the Ukrainians to be able to target the places where Russia is bombing them. Otherwise, the weaponry is useless,” Mr. Borrell stated.
The tragic loss of Colonel Mes underscores the ongoing challenges Ukraine faces in defending its territory and the critical importance of international support in its fight against Russian aggression.