Joint Netherlands and Denmark F-16 Fighter Delivery to Support Volodimir Zelenski’s Government
In an unexpected turn of events, the President of Ukraine embarked on a surprise visit to Eindhoven this past Sunday, making a significant announcement. While the exact number of aircraft remains undisclosed, the Netherlands, in collaboration with Denmark, has pledged to supply F-16 fighters to Ukraine as soon as the Ukrainian pilots complete their military training.
The interim Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mark Rutte, confirmed this commitment during a joint press conference with the Ukrainian President, VolodÃmir Zelenski. However, Rutte refrained from specifying the precise quantity of F-16s to be delivered. He emphasized the paramount importance of adequately training the pilots and preparing the necessary infrastructure for these fighter jets. Rutte underscored that while the F-16s may not offer immediate assistance in the current conflict, they represent a tangible manifestation of the Netherlands’ long-term commitment to Kiev.
“We are dedicated to making them operational as swiftly as possible,” Rutte assured. He also disclosed that the Netherlands currently maintains a stockpile of 42 F-16 fighters and anticipates needing some of them for pilot training in Denmark and, soon, Romania. Consequently, the exact number available for delivery to Kiev remains uncertain.
President Zelenski concurred that discussions regarding the quantity of fighter jets would unfold once pilot training and the preparation of Ukrainian technical personnel are underway. Nevertheless, he welcomed the Netherlands’ agreement to provide this critical military support. Zelenski acknowledged, “Today was the first time I heard the most important agreement, and that is that, apart from the United States – and we are grateful for that – the Netherlands is the first country that agreed to deliver F-16s to Ukraine after training.”
Turning to the current situation on the ground, President Zelenski reported progress in Kiev’s endeavors. He emphasized that Ukraine is not just fighting an adversary but is engaged in a battle against the Russian Federation, which, in the past, sought to conquer and dismantle the country. Despite the desire for a faster resolution, Zelenski recognized the challenges ahead, particularly in terms of air defenses and the impending winter season. He stressed the importance of maintaining a reliable power supply, acknowledging the complexities involved.
Furthermore, Zelenski reiterated Ukraine’s pursuit of a just and lasting peace, coupled with the full restoration of its territorial integrity. He made it clear that the tragedies that have unfolded on Ukrainian soil will not be forgotten, and justice will be sought through legal avenues. “Someone has to take responsibility, and we know their names,” he asserted.
Zelenski’s surprise visit to Eindhoven coincided with the recent commitment by the United States to expedite approvals for the shipment of F-16s to Ukraine. While the precise timeline for the delivery remains uncertain, Prime Minister Rutte estimated that it would occur shortly after the necessary arrangements are in place.
This marks President Zelenski’s second visit to the Netherlands since the conflict began in February of the previous year. Such visits serve as a means to express gratitude for the support received from allied nations during the war and to advocate for additional diplomatic, military, and financial assistance.