On Monday, President Biden announced that the United States will not be providing Ukraine with F-16 fighter planes, seemingly turning down a crucial request from the nation as it contends with Russian aggression. The United States’ announcement last week that it would deploy M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine reignited the country’s interest in acquiring fighter planes like the F-16.

When asked if Ukraine may get F-16 fighter planes, President Biden responded “No,” putting an end to that notion. Despite prior signs of openness, U.S. authorities appeared to shift their position. Jon Finer, the deputy national security advisor at the White House, has stated that the United States will evaluate the shipment of fighter planes to Ukraine with the country and its allies.

John Kirby, the coordinator for strategic communications at the National Security Council, said it was not surprising that Ukraine requested fighter planes as the United States has been very open with supporting the country’s fight against Russia.

President Biden said last week that the United States will be deploying 31 cutting-edge M1 Abrams tanks in response to Ukraine’s request. Prior to this, Germany agreed to supply 14 Leopard 2 tanks while enabling allies to re-export their own. The President characterized this action as a continuation of the international initiative, spearheaded by the United States, to assist Ukraine in preserving its territorial integrity and sovereignty. In addition, Biden announced that he will soon travel to Poland, though he did not specify when he would do it.