The Netherlands will begin delivering F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine immediately, announced Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp during his visit to Kyiv.
Ukraine anticipates that these American-made jets will enhance the protection of its soldiers and cities from ongoing Russian bombings.
On his first international trip since becoming Foreign Minister, Veldkamp confirmed that with export licenses approved last week, the Netherlands is prepared to send the aircraft to Ukraine.
“Having received approval for the initial F-16s, we committed to deliver them without delay,” he stated at a press conference in Kyiv on Saturday.
Details of Veldkamp’s visit were kept confidential until Sunday for security reasons. The exact date for the arrival of the first of the 24 F-16s promised by the Netherlands was not disclosed.
Veldkamp is part of the newly elected coalition where Geert Wilders’ far-right Party for Freedom (PVV) holds a significant position.
The new government has reaffirmed the Netherlands’ support for Ukraine.
Ukraine requested F-16s shortly after Russia’s invasion in February 2022, and its pilots have undergone extensive training in NATO countries.
Several NATO members, including Belgium, have pledged to supply these aircraft, known for their precision, speed, and range.
In a May interview with AFP, President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine needs around 130 F-16s to achieve air parity with Russia.
On Friday, Zelensky announced that Ukraine received its third batch of Patriot anti-aircraft missiles from Germany, with the Ukrainian crew completing their training on the system.
In a video address reported by the news agency Ukrinform, Zelensky stated that he met with military leaders regarding Ukraine’s missile program.
He issued a stern warning to Russia, emphasizing that the Kremlin will not escape accountability for its actions.
