The Dutch Prime Minister, Mark Rutte, had a telephone conversation with the Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, during which he conveyed the Netherlands’ decision to start preparing the first batch of 18 F-16 fighters for Ukraine.
Rutte shared this update on a social media platform on Friday, highlighting the significance of the F-16s in the military support agreements for Ukraine.
Rutte mentioned that several criteria, including an export permit, personnel requirements, and infrastructure needs, must be fulfilled before the aircraft can be delivered.
He emphasized this move as a testament to the Netherlands’ unwavering commitment to support Ukraine amid Russian hostilities.
Furthermore, Rutte discussed the European Council’s decision to initiate negotiations with Ukraine on joining the EU.
He expressed admiration for Ukraine’s progress in this regard and assured that the Netherlands would assist Ukraine in meeting the reforms needed for the accession process. Rutte also promised to advocate for EU financial support for Ukraine at the European Council meeting in February 2024.
In response, Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the Dutch government for their readiness to prepare the F-16 jets and their support for Ukraine’s EU accession talks.
He communicated this through the same social media platform on Friday. Zelenskyy stressed the urgency of securing EUR 50 billion in long-term EU aid for Ukraine.
Zelenskyy also mentioned discussing frontline developments, the Black Sea situation, and Ukraine’s immediate military needs, including artillery, drones, and air defense, with Rutte. They agreed to continue collaborative efforts on security guarantees post the G7 Vilnius Declaration.
Additionally, Zelenskyy highlighted their conversation about the upcoming Peace Formula meeting and efforts to strengthen global backing for Ukraine’s vision of a just peace.
