Ukraine has received a second shipment of F-16 fighter jets from Denmark, a critical step in strengthening the country’s air defense capabilities against Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the delivery on Dec. 7, emphasizing Denmark’s leadership in defending lives.
“The second batch of F-16s from Denmark has arrived in Ukraine,” Zelenskyy said in a social media post. “This is an example of leadership in defending lives that sets Denmark apart. With this additional reinforcement, our air shield is stronger than ever.”
Zelenskyy thanked Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, her team, and the Danish people for their unwavering support, stating that if all international partners matched Denmark’s commitment, “Russian terror could already have been made impossible.”
Denmark’s contributions are part of a larger international effort to bolster Ukraine’s defenses amid ongoing Russian missile strikes. The first batch of Danish F-16s has already been deployed, with the second delivery enhancing Ukraine’s ability to counter escalating attacks.
Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy officially introduces the Ukrainian F-16 to the public. The best part of it is that they are loaded with AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles.
— (((Tendar))) (@Tendar) August 4, 2024
The real air war in Ukraine begins, now.
Source: Office of the Ukrainian President pic.twitter.com/o4XuzhGp9s
Denmark has been a prominent ally of Ukraine, becoming the first country to donate arms through direct purchases from Ukraine’s defense industry. Last month, Denmark joined other Nordic and Baltic countries, including Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Norway, Poland, and Sweden, in pledging continued support to Ukraine. The coalition described Russia as a significant long-term threat and reaffirmed its commitment to sanctions and stronger defenses.
Zelenskyy is in Paris to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron and other world leaders. The event celebrates the restoration of the Notre Dame Cathedral and offers an opportunity for high-level discussions on Ukraine.
Among the attendees is U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, whose stance on continued support for Ukraine remains unclear. European leaders are keen to solidify his backing as Ukraine approaches the three-year mark of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Meanwhile, Russia claims its forces have made advances in eastern Ukraine, capturing the small village of Berestky near the embattled town of Kurakhove in the Donetsk region.
As the conflict grinds on, Denmark’s delivery of F-16s serves as a symbol of international solidarity and the ongoing effort to fortify Ukraine against Russian aggression.
