During surprise visits by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Denmark and the Netherlands pledged their support to Ukraine by providing F-16 fighter jets, marking a significant stride in equipping Ukraine with advanced weaponry to counter Russia’s invasion.
Denmark and the Netherlands Have Approval To Send Fighter Jets to Ukraine
Both Denmark and the Netherlands, members of the NATO alliance, have gained the necessary approval from the United States to send fighter jets to Ukraine.
The transfer will occur after Ukrainian pilots undergo training to operate the jets effectively.
This decision follows separate meetings between the Ukrainian leader and the prime ministers of Denmark and the Netherlands.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has stated that her country will send 19 out of its 30 F-16s to Ukraine.
A Squadron of Six Aircraft Could Depart Denmark Around the Start of the New Year
Initial plans indicate that a squadron of six aircraft could depart Denmark around the start of the New Year.
Furthermore, more than 70 Ukrainian service members are currently undergoing training in Denmark to prepare for the operation of these jets.
During these meetings, Frederiksen and her Dutch counterpart, Mark Rutte, emphasized the importance of international support for Ukraine’s military efforts.
The leaders urged other nations to provide aircraft to Kyiv, aiding the reclamation of territories occupied by Russian forces since the early 2022 invasion.
“We Hope and Believe That the Danish Fighters Will Help Protect the Ukrainian People and Help Ukraine Take Back the Lands That Are Rightfully Yours”
Frederiksen highlighted the unprecedented commitment of Denmark and the Netherlands, stating, “Together with the Netherlands, we are the first country that can make a serious, unbreakable commitment to provide fighter jets. We hope and believe that the Danish fighters will help protect the Ukrainian people and help Ukraine take back the lands that are rightfully yours.”
President Zelenskiy and his wife Olena met Prime Minister Rutte in the Netherlands.
Although Rutte didn’t disclose the exact number of F-16s that will be donated, he assured that the transfer would occur soon.
Fighter Jets and Long-Range Cruise Missiles
The decision to provide these fighter jets comes after months of urging from Ukrainian officials for NATO member states to expedite the transfer of more potent weaponry, including fighter jets and long-range cruise missiles.
The objective is to enhance Ukraine’s capacity to counter Russian forces and safeguard the lives of its soldiers as they engage in a counteroffensive, often without adequate air support.
The hesitancy of the United States to commit to such transfers was noted, with President Joe Biden’s administration initially withholding approval due to concerns about escalating tensions with Russia.
However, President Biden shifted his position in May and approved the transfer of these fighter jets.
To Bolster Ukraine’s Defense Efforts
The collaboration between Denmark, the Netherlands, and Ukraine has seen progress. Denmark and the Netherlands received the green light from the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, which is a prerequisite for transferring ownership of the fighter jets.
President Zelenskiy’s recent travels have focused on enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities. He discussed with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson about potential weapons systems that could bolster Ukraine’s defense efforts.
Ukraine’s pilots have begun training on Sweden’s Gripen fighter jets.
Denmark, the Netherlands Commit To Support Ukraine’s Defense Against Russian Aggression
Moreover, preparations are underway in Ukraine to support the F-16s, including pilot training and establishing necessary infrastructure.
In this dynamic geopolitical context, the combined efforts of Denmark, the Netherlands, and Ukraine reflect a commitment to support Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.
While the situation remains complex, these actions are aimed at providing Ukraine with the necessary tools to safeguard its territorial integrity and national security.
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Source: MSN