Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, during an appearance on the “Breakfast with 1+1” TV show, expressed his opinion on Eurocontrol’s forecast, according to which flights over Ukraine will be restricted until 2029. Kuleba noted that if Ukraine had F-16 fighters, it would have the opportunity to open an airport in Lviv.
The minister stated that the Ukrainian side is focused on restoring the work of airports and airlines, but safety remains a top priority. He criticized Eurocontrol for its conservative position on restrictions. Kuleba also cited the example of the Patriot air defense systems, which Ukraine requested at the beginning of the war but received only a year later.
According to the minister, if Ukraine had received Patriot systems and F-16 fighters at the beginning of the conflict, the number of destroyed cities and energy facilities would have been significantly lower. Kuleba said that although he talks about this with international partners, they have their own reasoning, logic, and analysis of the situation.
Last September, it was said that Lviv airport might be the first to resume operations in Ukraine. Technically, it would take up to two weeks, but in practice, it would only be possible if security was guaranteed.
