Putin vows no NATO attack but threatens to down F‑16s if sent to Ukraine

Vladimir Putin stated that Russia does not plan to attack any NATO country - it will not attack Poland, the Baltic countries, or the Czech Republic. However, "if the West delivers F-16 fighters to Ukraine, they will be shot down". "We will destroy the planes, just as we destroy tanks today," said the Russian dictator.

Many reports by Russian media or representatives of the government are elements of propaganda. Such reports are part of the information war conducted by the Russian Federation.

During a speech addressed to Russian pilots, Vladimir Putin stated that he does not plan to attack NATO countries, reports Reuters Agency, citing a statement from the Kremlin. "We have no aggressive intentions towards these countries," said the Russian leader on Wednesday. At the same time, Western experts warn that Russia is currently the biggest threat, and Putin is increasing his military potential.

"The idea that we will attack another country - Poland, the Baltic countries, and the Czechs are also frightened - is complete nonsense. It's simply rubbish," Putin said. The dictator also mentioned the F-16 fighters awaited by Ukraine. In his opinion, the machines promised by the West do not change the situation in Kyiv. "If they deliver F-16s, as they say, and are training pilots, it will not change the situation on the battlefield," he said. "We will destroy the aircraft, just as we destroy tanks, armoured vehicles, and other equipment, including missile launchers," Putin added.

The Danish Air Force plans to sell Argentina 24 F-16 aircraft, which are currently being retired from their fleet - reports PAP. A preliminary agreement on this matter was signed in the capital of Argentina, Buenos Aires, by the defence ministers of both countries - Troels Lund Poulsen of Denmark and Luis Alfonso Petri of Argentina. As a result of this decision, Denmark will provide Ukraine with fewer machines.

An official statement emphasized that the future transaction has a value of about £240 million. The US authorities, the manufacturers of these fighters, have consented to their sale. The signing of the agreement with Argentina means that the Danish authorities cannot provide Ukraine with more than 19 previously announced aircraft of this type. The first will be delivered to the Ukrainian Air Force during the summer.

When Danish journalists asked why Argentina would receive 24 aircraft instead of Ukraine, Minister Poulsen replied that Denmark had already done a lot, providing the Ukrainian air forces with F-16 fighters. He also added that Copenhagen is training Ukrainian pilots and ground personnel.

Source: Reuters, PAP/NaTemat