The first four Ukrainian pilots have arrived in Romania to start F-16 training

The first four Ukrainian pilots arrived in Romania this week to begin training with the F-16 fighter jets, National Defense Ministry spokesman Constantin Spinu said on Friday.

For now, they are only attending theoretical training, with the practical phase due to start towards the end of the year.

Ukraine has received its first F-16 jets from the West and wants to be able to use them as soon as possible to counter Russian attacks.

In a telephone conversation on Thursday with Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, Minister Angel Tilvar reconfirmed Romania's firm commitment to continue its support to Ukraine.

Translated by: Radu Matei