The Ukrainian president has travelled to Japan for talks with G7 leaders this weekend. 

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said this will "greatly enhance" the nation's army in the sky and "peace will be closer" following meetings at the G7 summit. 

It comes after the US announced it would allow other Western allies to give fighter jets to Ukraine, including F-16s. 

Sky Political Editor Beth Rigby said the timeline for the jets - and pilots - remains unclear. 

“In terms of what it means for the war practically, it could take up to 18 months for pilots to be trained and for those fighter jets to be deployed,” she said.  

“So, for the spring offensive coming up, these fighter jets will not be ready.” 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy participates in a flag-raising ceremony in the centre of Kherson, 14-11-2022. Image: UPI/Alamy

The G7 comprises the US, UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan - but eight other nations have been invited this year, including Brazil, Australia and India.  

The G7 leaders have already announced they're renewing promises to provide military and financial help for Ukraine “for as long as it takes”. 

“Our support for Ukraine will not waver. We will not tire in our commitment to mitigate the impact of Russia’s illegal actions on the rest of the world,” they announced in a joint statement. 

They revealed 86 further sanctions on Russian individuals and organisations, as well as imports of diamonds and other metals. 

President Zelenskyy also travelled to Saudi Arabia this week to address the Arab League and accused some Arab leaders of turning a "blind eye" to war.