World News

Exclusive: Ukrainian pilots get virtual jump on F-16 training on September 28, 2023 at 10:00 am

Published

3 years ago

September 28, 2023

OUTSIDE KYIV, UKRAINE — Ukrainian pilots are honing their skills in virtual F-16 fighter jet cockpits as they anxiously await approval to travel abroad for training.

A Ukrainian pilot gave a demonstration to a reporter from The Hill in an exclusive visit to a secret facility this month, where the cockpit simulation was displayed on large computer monitors for a small audience.

Andrii, a Su-27 fighter pilot who goes by the call sign ‘Sabre,’ sat in a mock jet seat with a joystick, pedals under his feet, and a throttle to the left. The action takes place in a virtual reality headset.

The ground location, while pixelated, is Russian-occupied Ukrainian territory, and Andrii must identify his target, discharge his bomb and execute an “anti-missile maneuver.”

“And you will see that it explodes,” he explains, as a small fire burns on the computer screen. “This is the fulfillment of the mission, precisely how it is supposed to be in reality.”

Andrii keeps his hands on the controls while leaning his body and swiveling his head in the same movements he would undertake in the Soviet-era Su-27 he typically flies. On the side of his left arm is a patch for “The Ghosts of Kyiv,” the 40th tactical aviation brigade of the air force that draws its name from the debunked myth of a single fighter pilot hailed for taking down multiple Russian planes.

“We are studying F-16s. We are not interested in other aircraft,” he said, echoing a message that Ukraine’s civilian and military leaders have reiterated for months in meetings with Western partners.

After hours in the simulator, Andrii said that when he does sit in the jet, his focus can be on flying because he will know, precisely, how to manage the controls.

“We need to learn and understand the function of every button or switch, and where it is located. That will allow us later to fulfill certain missions quicker. So, we need to learn how to use and maintain this aircraft competently,” he said.

The simulator program training pilots on F-16s has not been previously reported. After a visit by The Hill, the Ukrainian air force released a promotional video on the program featuring Andrii and Oleksii Diakiv, head of the training command for the air force of Ukraine.

“All of us understand that the future belongs to F-16 aircraft or the other aircraft which our partners will provide us with,” Andrii says in the video, sitting in the cockpit of his fighter jet. “That’s why we need to train now, learn the cockpit equipment, armament system and its employment.”

The genesis of the simulator training program was part of a push to get American A-10 Thunderbolt attack aircraft to Ukraine — but that effort was eventually shelved.

The simulators are provided by the nonprofit Heroes and Allies, which had set up the virtual training program for A-10s more than a year earlier. They began purchasing computer software and controls for the F-16 program beginning in August of last year.

“We still have hope that Ukraine will receive the A-10 Thunderbolt II, after the F-16 is provided to Ukraine and its use is fully deployed,” said Alexander Gorgan, co-founder of Heroes and Allies.

President Biden agreed in June to allow the transfer of American-made F-16s from allied countries to Ukraine, and he announced in August that the U.S. would start training some Ukrainian pilots and support personnel at a base in Arizona as soon as October.

But delivery of the aircraft and their operations are not expected to take place until 2024 at the earliest.

Diakiv told The Hill that the simulator program is expected to reduce the overall length of the training for pilots, but it’s a protocol that’s never been tried before.

“We are taking this road for the first time now. So at this moment, I cannot say how much we will be able to reduce the length of training, owing to that approach,” he explained through a translator.

“But we are sure that this will reduce the time needed for that training. But once we have that experience, we certainly will be able to share it.”

The simulator also allows pilots the space to practice missions on the ground without wasting expensive fuel or risking a deadly training accident.

Two weeks before The Hill’s visit with Andrii, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that a training accident killed three pilots, among them Andriy “Juice” Pilshchykov, a national hero who had taken on an informal role of a spokesperson for Ukraine’s F-16s push.

Juice spoke to The Hill in August 2022, crediting American-provided anti-radar missiles as key in suppressing Russian air defenses, and spoke of the bond he built with U.S. pilots in 2018 after a training accident killed an American and Ukrainian pilot.

“U.S. Air Force became the real brothers in arms for us, with blood on our soil,” he told The Hill at the time.

Russia claims that it has downed more than 450 Ukrainian airplanes, a number that draws a hearty laugh from members of Ukraine’s air force, who say the actual figure is far smaller.

“So perhaps then we’ve got some blue-collar guys who sit underground and make a big number of airplanes every month,” Diakiv said to laughs in the group. “Tiny little dwarfs or elves or hobbits who can fix anything.”

While Ukraine does not comment on its war losses, a senior U.S. official reportedly said in March that Kyiv has lost about 60 aircraft and downed about 70 Russian aircraft.

It’s unclear how many F-16s Ukraine is expected to receive. Denmark has committed to send 19. The Netherlands has a fleet of 42 F-16s but has not yet said how many it will send.

And even as the F-16s are hotly anticipated, the planes are not expected to be a game-changer on the battlefield.

Ukrainian and U.S. officials, as well as experts, say no weapons system on its own will bring Russia to the negotiating table, but rather that consistent commitments from the U.S. and other allies could eventually wear down the support surrounding Russian President Vladimir Putin in maintaining his war.

“I think you’re always in a good place if you talk about capability requirements. Instead of talking about specific platforms or specific numbers, what is the capability that Ukraine needs?” asked Ben Hodges, former commanding general of the United States Army Europe.

“And of course the capability they need for this counteroffensive is to help isolate Crimea and make it untenable for Russian forces, whether that’s with jets, drones, ATACMs [long-range missiles] or whatever, that’s the decisive part of this war, is Crimea,” Hodges said.

But key to Ukraine’s defense is giving the country the ability to close its skies.

Expanding air defense over larger parts of the country — where Russia continues to hit civilian infrastructure including homes and energy and water systems — is viewed as critical for Ukraine to function as a country, keeping its citizens at home and working, and ensuring the safety of international investments and commerce.

Blending a new fleet of F-16 fighter pilots with Western air defense systems is viewed as key to this strategy.

“Perhaps it is less important how many units of the weapons they provide for us, but how well we will be able to use the advantages provided by one or another system. Perhaps we need to combine them in the most rational way to accomplish closing our sky,” Diakiv said.

OUTSIDE KYIV, UKRAINE — Ukrainian pilots are honing their skills in virtual F-16 fighter jet cockpits as they anxiously await approval to travel abroad for training. A Ukrainian pilot gave a demonstration to a reporter from The Hill in an exclusive visit to a secret facility this month, where the cockpit simulation was displayed on…

Business

GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY SUMMIT RETURNS FOR ITS 5TH EDITION AT THE BRITISH PARLIAMENT – HOUSE OF LORDS, PALACE OF WESTMINSTER

Published

1 month ago

May 16, 2026

Bolanle Media Staff

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Theme: “People, Planet, and Profit in the Age of AI and Innovation”

London, United Kingdom — The Global Sustainability Summit (GSS) is officially back for its landmark 5th Edition, continuing its legacy as one of the leading international platforms driving sustainable development, climate action, ethical investment, innovation, and global collaboration.

Convened annually at the prestigious British Parliament, House of Lords, Palace of Westminster, by Ambassador Canon Chinenem Otto, the Summit has, over the last four years, successfully fostered international dialogue and partnerships that have contributed to the advancement of global sustainability goals, the establishment of sustainability-focused ministries, departments and policy structures across national and subnational governments, and the attraction of major investors into sustainable development projects, corporations and emerging economies.

This year’s summit, themed “People, Planet, and Profit in the Age of AI and Innovation,” will explore how emerging technologies, responsible leadership, sustainable finance, innovation, and global partnerships can shape a more inclusive, resilient and environmentally conscious future.

The 5th Edition promises to be the most impactful yet, bringing together world leaders, policymakers, diplomats, investors, academics, innovators, climate experts and youth leaders from across the globe to discuss actionable solutions toward achieving a sustainable and equitable future.

Among the distinguished speakers, delegates and honorees already lined up for the Summit are:

• His Excellency Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq — Executive Governor of Kwara State, Nigeria and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum

• His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Otu — Executive Governor of Cross River State, Nigeria

• Ambassador Patricia Espinosa Cantellano — Former Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change (UNFCCC) and Former Foreign Minister of Mexico

• Lord Marvin Rees, Baron Rees of Easton OBE — Member of the House of Lords, United Kingdom

• Hon. Neema K. Lugangira — Secretary-General of Women Political Leaders (WPL), Brussels and Former Member of Parliament

• Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah — President of the Republic of Namibia

• His Excellency Nangolo Mbumba — Former President of Namibia

• Former President of Tanzania

• Her Excellency Ambassador Professor Olufolake AbdulRazaq — First Lady of Kwara State, Nigeria and Chairperson of Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum

• Your Excellency Dr. Dikko Umar Radda, PhD, CON — Executive Governor of Katsina State and Chairman of the Northwest Governors Forum, Nigeria

• Hon. Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma — Governor of Khomas Region, Namibia

• H.E. Mr. Veiccoh Nghiwete — High Commissioner of the Republic of Namibia to the United Kingdom

• Her Excellency Ms. Macenje “Che Che” Mazoka — High Commissioner of Zambia to the United Kingdom

• Ms. Danielle Newman — Partner Lead, ICT, World Economic Forum

• Leanne Elliott Young — Co-founder, Institute of Digital Fashion & CommuneEast

• Ms. Chloe Russell — Producer & Presenter, Art, Science and Nature

• Professor Marie-Claire Cordonier Segger — University of Cambridge & University of Waterloo

• Dr. Alexandra R. Harrington — IUCN World Commission on Environmental Law (WCEL)

• Professor Payam Akhavan — Massey College, University of Toronto

• Mr. Mallai C. E. Sathya — President, Dravida Vetri Kazhagam and International Movement for Tamil Culture Asia

The Summit will feature high-level panel discussions, strategic investment conversations, sustainability awards, policy dialogues, innovation showcases, youth engagement sessions and international networking opportunities focused on climate resilience, ethical financing, food-water-energy sustainability, circular economy, artificial intelligence, diplomacy and sustainable development.

Speaking ahead of the Summit, Convener Ambassador Canon Chinenem Otto noted:

“As the world rapidly evolves through artificial intelligence and technological innovation, we must ensure that sustainability remains people-centered, environmentally responsible and economically inclusive. The Global Sustainability Summit continues to serve as a bridge connecting governments, institutions, innovators and investors to accelerate practical sustainability solutions globally. Our fifth edition is not only a celebration of progress made over the years, but also a renewed call for global collaboration and actionable impact toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and Net Zero ambitions.”

The Global Sustainability Summit continues to position itself as a catalyst for transformative partnerships and sustainable global progress, reinforcing the urgent need for collective action toward a more resilient and sustainable future.

More announcements regarding additional speakers, partners and summit activities will be unveiled in the coming weeks.

News

US May Completely Cut Income Tax Due to Tariff Revenue

Published

7 months ago

November 30, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

President Donald Trump says the United States might one day get rid of federal income tax because of money the government collects from tariffs on imported goods. Tariffs are extra taxes the U.S. puts on products that come from other countries.

What Trump Is Saying

Trump has said that tariff money could become so large that it might allow the government to cut income taxes “almost completely.” He has also talked about possibly phasing out income tax over the next few years if tariff money keeps going up.

How Taxes Work Now

Right now, the federal government gets much more money from income taxes than from tariffs. Income taxes bring in trillions of dollars each year, while tariffs bring in only a small part of that total. Because of this gap, experts say tariffs would need to grow by many times to replace income tax money.

Questions From Experts

Many economists and tax experts doubt that tariffs alone could pay for the whole federal budget. They warn that very high tariffs could make many imported goods more expensive for shoppers in the United States. This could hit lower- and middle‑income families hardest, because they spend a big share of their money on everyday items.

What Congress Must Do

The president can change some tariffs, but only Congress can change or end the federal income tax. That means any real plan to remove income tax would need new laws passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate. So far, there is no detailed law or full budget plan on this idea.

What It Means Right Now

For now, Trump’s comments are a proposal, not a change in the law. People and businesses still have to pay federal income tax under the current rules. The debate over using tariffs instead of income taxes is likely to continue among lawmakers, experts, and voters.

News

Epstein Files to Be Declassified After Trump Order

Published

7 months ago

November 20, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

Former President Donald Trump has signed an executive order directing federal agencies to declassify all government files related to Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier whose death in 2019 continues to fuel controversy and speculation.

The order, signed Wednesday at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, instructs the FBI, Department of Justice, and intelligence agencies to release documents detailing Epstein’s network, finances, and alleged connections to high-profile figures. Trump described the move as “a step toward transparency and public trust,” promising that no names would be shielded from scrutiny.

“This information belongs to the American people,” Trump said in a televised statement. “For too long, powerful interests have tried to bury the truth. That ends now.”

U.S. intelligence officials confirmed that preparations for the release are already underway. According to sources familiar with the process, the first batch of documents is expected to be made public within the next 30 days, with additional releases scheduled over several months.

Reactions poured in across the political spectrum. Supporters praised the decision as a bold act of accountability, while critics alleged it was politically motivated, timed to draw attention during a volatile election season. Civil rights advocates, meanwhile, emphasized caution, warning that some records could expose private victims or ongoing legal matters.

The Epstein case, which implicated figures in politics, business, and entertainment, remains one of the most talked-about scandals of the past decade. Epstein’s connections to influential individuals—including politicians, royals, and executives—have long sparked speculation about the extent of his operations and who may have been involved.

Former federal prosecutor Lauren Fields said the release could mark a turning point in public discourse surrounding government transparency. “Regardless of political stance, this declassification has the potential to reshape how Americans view power and accountability,” Fields noted.

Officials say redactions may still occur to protect sensitive intelligence or personal information, but the intent is a near-complete disclosure. For years, critics of the government’s handling of Epstein’s case have accused agencies of concealing evidence or shielding elites from exposure. Trump’s order promises to change that narrative.

As anticipation builds, journalists, legal analysts, and online commentators are preparing for what could be one of the most consequential information releases in recent history.