In a recent development, the Ukrainian Air Force is now open to accepting foreign citizens into its ranks, according to Yuriy Ignat, a representative of the Air Force Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This move comes as Ukraine continues to face a challenging military situation, with the potential inclusion of Western equipment, such as Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter jets into its arsenal.
As per reported by TASS, Ignat explained that there have been numerous requests from individuals connected to the aviation sector, including Ukrainians working abroad and citizens of other countries, who are interested in joining the Ukrainian Air Force. He emphasized that individuals with expertise in piloting or aviation engineering can legally become military personnel of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, despite their foreign citizenship.
The Ukrainian Air Force is currently operating Soviet-era equipment, which provides a sufficient number of pilots. However, Ignat noted that if Ukraine were to receive F-16 fighter jets or other Western equipment, it could lead to an influx of foreign personnel joining the air force.
Dmitry Medvedev, the Deputy Head of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, warned on Friday that any weapons supplied to Kyiv and the foreign experts who arrive with them would be considered legitimate targets for the Russian military.
Slovakia has recently offered to provide MiG-29 aircraft to Ukraine, following Poland’s decision to do the same. On March 21, US Air Force Brigadier General Patrick Ryder, a Pentagon spokesperson, stated that the United States administration continues to maintain its position of not transferring F-16 fighters to Kyiv, in spite of Poland and Slovakia’s commitment to sending MiG-29s.
The willingness of foreign citizens to join the Ukrainian Air Force, along with Slovakia’s offer of MiG-29 aircraft, highlights the growing international support for Ukraine during this critical period. While the inclusion of foreign personnel and equipment may enhance Ukraine’s military capabilities, it also raises concerns about potential escalation and confrontation with Russia.
