The Netherlands and Denmark will provide F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine once conditions are met, as Dutch PM Mark Rutte stated during President Zelenskyy’s visit.
Rutte said the Netherlands has 42 F-16s available, but Reuters reported it is too early to say whether they will be donated.
“Today we can announce that the Netherlands and Denmark commit to the transfer of F-16 Aircraft to Ukraine and the Ukrainian Air Force, including cooperation with the United States and other partners once the conditions for such a transfer have been met,” He stated this during a press conference with Zelenskyy at an Eindhoven air base.
Zelenskyy referred to the deal as a “breakthrough agreement” and mentioned that the specific number of aircraft would be discussed later.
This commitment marks a significant step, as it is the initial concrete assurance of F-16s for Ukraine’s military. This announcement follows closely after the United States approved potential fighter jet delivery by the Netherlands and Denmark.
Ukraine has persistently appealed for advanced fighters to enhance its combat capabilities. Notably, it commenced a highly awaited counteroffensive against Russian forces, exposing its troops to Russian aviation and artillery due to the absence of air cover.
