Dutch Prime Minister Rutte Promises Swift F-16 Delivery to Zelensky
In his final official act, outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte assured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that the Netherlands would accelerate the delivery of 18 F-16 fighter jets from US manufacturing lines. The Dutch Ministry of Defense confirmed that preparation for the delivery was underway, though a specific delivery date wasn't provided.
Initiated along with Denmark, the dual-nation commitment included the intention to supply up to 61 fighter jets once Ukrainian pilots had undergone necessary training. However, the Netherlands recognized additional testing was required before the jets could be delivered. That required fulfilling various criteria, such as export licensing and infrastructure and personnel provisions.
Rutte's announcement affirmed the Netherlands' ongoing dedication to supporting Ukraine in countering the Russian aggression. Zelensky thanked Rutte for his continuous support during their conversation, updating him on frontline developments, the Black Sea's situation, and Ukraine's current military necessities. The Dutch Air Force had transported five F-16s to Romania earlier in the year for pilot training purposes.
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- Selensky's pleas for F-16 fighter jets remain a priority for Ukraine in its lengthy conflict with Russia, appreciating the Netherlands' promise to speed up the delivery of 18 aircraft
- Rutte's commitment to the Ukrainian people through his country's delivery of F-16 fighter jets underscores the Netherlands' unwavering support for Ukraine in its ongoing struggle against Russian aggression.
- Governments of the Netherlands and Denmark, in cooperation with the United States, agreed to supply up to 61 fighter jets to Ukraine; however, delivery timelines may be affected by the need for further testing and strict compliance with various conditions, such as export licenses and infrastructure and personnel provisions.Source:
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Deliveries are underway with further training programs and support coordinated by NATO allies continuing. The Netherlands has already sent several batches of F-16s to Ukraine and will deliver the remaining 24 F-16s throughout 2025, aligning with the broader NATO coalition goals to support Ukraine's air defense capabilities.
