Lavrov: The US and its allies are playing with fire by supplying F-16s to Ukraine

The Russian Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, expressed regret on Sunday, June 7, over the "unacceptable escalation of tensions" by Western countries, stating that the US and its allies are "playing with fire" by greenlighting the delivery of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. In an interview with Russian state television, Lavrov remarked, "This is undoubtedly playing with fire." He condemned the efforts of "Washington, London, and their satellites in the European Union" to "weaken Russia." Lavrov reiterated previous Russian officials' positions that the West aims to impose a "strategic defeat" on Moscow through the delivery of modern weapons to Kyiv and seeks to "disintegrate" Russia. Meanwhile, the timeline for the delivery of US-made F-16s and their quantity has not yet been finalized, and Ukrainian pilots must first undergo several months of training to operate them. Recently, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during his visit to Kyiv and meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, stated that the US commitment to supporting Ukraine and its territorial integrity is resolute. He also urged Ukrainian leaders and citizens to "stay united and strengthen this unity, as it has never been more important." Russia invaded Ukraine in March 2022, and currently, parts of Ukrainian territory are occupied by Russian forces. The Russian President has repeatedly warned that his country will use any means necessary to defend itself, framing the invasion of Ukraine as a battle for Russia's survival against the West. Training of Ukrainian pilots to operate and refuel F-16 jets is ongoing amid Russian opposition. A senior US military official stated that the F-16s will not be a miracle, but Russia will not emerge victorious either. Exclusive to Voice of America: Training for Ukrainian forces on using Abrams tanks will begin in a few days. NATO: We will help Ukraine defend itself. Russia's response to the potential delivery of F-16s to Ukraine: it will not weaken Russia's military objectives. Russia warns the West about sending F-16s to Ukraine.