States oppose the transfer of fighter jets.
US Senator Rob Portman said the delivery of fighter jets to Ukraine, including MiG-29s, is important as Russia ramps up its attacks on the country.
It is reported by CNN.
“We heard directly from the Ukrainians that they really want to get them. They want to be able to control the sky better to give them a chance to fight,” Portman said.
Last week, the Pentagon said the US was opposed to the transfer of the fighter jets because it was concerned that Russia might see it as the alliance's direct involvement in the war.
Portman, who is in Poland, said he was not sure why the US was having difficulty sending fighter jets after the US had already sent other military equipment to Ukraine, including Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, and said “aircraft are also needed.”
“The Ukrainian people are asking just to give them the opportunity to defend themselves. Give them the opportunity to try to stop this advantage of Russia in air power in order to save lives and hopefully come to a peaceful solution,” he said.
Recall that the Pentagon believes that MIG-29 fighters will not significantly enhance the defense capability of the Ukrainian air force .
