Senator Mark Kelly solidified ties with NATO allies during his recent trip to Romania, reiterating the U.S.'s support for Ukrainian defense amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. According to a press release from his office, Kelly visited U.S. troops stationed at NATO's eastern flank and observed Ukrainian pilots being trained on F-16 fighter jets as part of the efforts to bolster Ukraine's military capabilities against Russian aggression.
Kelly's itinerary included a tour of the European F-16 Training Center at Romania’s 86th Air Base, interactions with Ukrainian pilots, and briefings at the Aegis Ashore missile defense site in Deveselu. He lauded Romania’s significant role in strengthening defenses along the Black Sea and commended the establishment of the F-16 training operation, stating, "I traveled to Romania to stand with one of our strongest NATO allies and to see firsthand how they’re helping Ukraine defend itself against Putin’s illegal invasion," Kelly's office reported.
The Arizona Senator, who is a Navy combat veteran himself, has been a vocal advocate for providing Ukraine with F-16s. His interactions with Ukrainian pilots both in Kyiv and in his home state of Arizona's 162nd Wing were prior efforts to understand and support their training needs. While in Romania, Kelly had discussions with top-tier Romanian officials, including President Nicușor Dan and Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan, revolving around national security challenges, defense modernization, and NATO's strategic vision.
Alongside official meetings and military site visits, Kelly participated in a July 4th celebration at the 99th Military Base and Naval Support Facility in Deveselu. There he joined U.S. sailors and Romanian military officers, delivering remarks on the enduring partnership between the two nations, "I’m bringing what I saw back to Washington as we continue pushing for the resources and strategy needed to meet this moment," commented Kelly. The visit underscores an ongoing commitment to the defense of democracy and stability in Europe, amid tensions heightened by geopolitical conflicts.
