[Paul R.]

As iof they all called ahead to find if a missile barrage wasn't planned for that day...."

Well, pretty simple, the way that works is that Russia refrains from heavy bombardments close to visiting dignitaries. Knocking off a NATO country PM or something like that would not go over well.

Even with Norway's donation, I'd be surprised if Ukraine actually received over 30 ready-to-go F16's by the end of 2024. Trained pilots won't be the problem.

Granted, that could change if other countries retiring fighter jets chime in. The US certainly has plenty to dispose of.

[Worldtraveler once upon a time]

--- "...pretty simple, the way that works is that Russia refrains from heavy bombardments close to visiting dignitaries."

For this to be, there would have to be back-channel communications between combatants. Is that your assertion?

Were that true, between US and European elite, there could be every day a state or celebrity visit. Better cover than actual air defense.....