Ukraine has received a batch of fighter jets from France and the Netherlands, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Thursday. The French Mirage 2000-5 and F-16 multi-role fighter planes were handed over to the Ukrainian Air Force, enhancing its air defense capabilities.
Zelenskyy thanked French President Emmanuel Macron for his support, saying it was a significant step in strengthening Ukraine’s security. French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu confirmed that the aircraft would be manned by Ukrainian pilots who had trained in France.
The Netherlands also delivered additional US-made F-16 fighter planes to Ukraine, which will soon begin combat missions. The deliveries are part of European countries’ efforts to support Ukraine’s defense efforts.
Meanwhile, Russia claimed to have repelled a Ukrainian offensive in Kursk, but the validity of this claim cannot be verified independently. Ukraine continues to pursue its military operations, including a reported strike on an airfield in southern Russia that was allegedly used for launching drones against Ukraine.
This latest development marks another step in Ukraine’s efforts to receive international support in its conflict with Russia.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/ukraine-receives-french-and-dutch-fighter-jets/a-71530786