Netherlands Unrestricts F-16 Use for Ukraine

The Netherlands has allowed Ukraine to use its F-16 fighter jets without restrictions, marking a significant shift in Western policy on Ukrainian strikes inside Russia. This decision comes amid reports of Ukraine's first F-16 pilot, Oleksii Mes, being killed in a crash while defending against a major Russian attack. The upgraded F-16s, equipped for full-spectrum electromagnetic warfare, have already been utilized in combat, successfully intercepting Russian missiles and drones. These upgrades, facilitated by the U.S. Air Force with data from Denmark and Norway, are aimed at improving Ukraine's electronic warfare capabilities. The loss of Mes is a significant blow, given his critical role and the extensive efforts to secure and train pilots for these jets. Despite this setback, the enhanced F-16s are expected to bolster Ukraine's defense against evolving Russian threats.