Ukrainian F-16 Fighter Jet Crashes Amidst Missile Attack

A Ukrainian F-16 fighter jet was destroyed in a crash, with initial reports suggesting pilot error or mechanical failure rather than Russian fire. This came amid massive missile and drone attacks on Ukraine. President Zelenskiy reported that F-16 jets played a crucial role in repelling the attack.

A Ukrainian F-16 fighter jet was destroyed in a crash on Monday, according to a U.S. defense official. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, with possibilities ranging from pilot error to mechanical failure, but Russian fire is not suspected.

The incident came amidst a 'massive' missile and drone attack on Ukraine, as stated by Ukraine's Air Force commander. Another major strike followed on Tuesday. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy noted that F-16 jets were effectively used to counter the attack on Monday, resulting in good outcomes.

President Zelenskiy had earlier announced on August 5 that Ukraine began deploying F-16s for operations, marking the first use of the U.S.-made fighter jets nearly 2-1/2 years following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies.)