The Controversy Surrounding F-16s in Ukraine

President Biden said that Ukraine President Zelenskyy gave him a "flat assurance" that F-16 fighter jets will not be used to attack Russian territory. Biden also stated that the US would assist with training Ukrainian pilots on modern fighter aircraft, including American-made F-16s. Ukraine is expected to mount a counteroffensive this spring against Russian troops, and Biden said it is "highly unlikely" the F-16s will be used as part of Ukraine's upcoming counteroffensive but will be used later if the war continues. Zelenskyy appeared to confirm earlier Russian claims that its forces captured the city of Bakhmut, but later denied it, saying his comments were a reference to the complete destruction of Bakhmut.