Ukraine has received its first batch of US-made F-16 fighter jets, Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, said on Sunday, adding that more are needed to beat back Russian forces.

For more than two years, Ukraine has pleaded with its Western partners for the aircraft – long considered the crown jewel in the sprawling list of military hardware Kyiv has sought.

“We often heard the word ‘impossible’. Now it is a reality. Reality in our skies. F-16s in Ukraine. We made it happen,” Mr Zelensky said, as some flew above him during the announcement.

Mr Zelensky was standing in front of what looked like two grey, partially covered F-16s branded with the Ukrainian trident, in a location reporters were asked not to disclose for security reasons.

“I am proud of all our guys who are mastering these aircraft and have already started using them for our country,” he said.