Air National Guard Ukraine Su-27
A US Air National Guard pilot in the back seat of a Ukrainian Su-27 during exercise Safe Skies in July 2011.
  • US troops have been in contact with Ukrainian troops throughout the war to provide advice and support.
  • Members of the US Air National Guard have been providing advice for using US-made weaponry.
  • Despite US support, Ukraine's air force is still at a disadvantage against Russia's larger force.

Since Russia attacked Ukraine last year, US airmen have been on the phone with their Ukrainian counterparts, discussing ways to operate against Russian forces and how to use US-made weapons, US Air Force officials said this month.