Zelenskyy and Dutch PM discuss strengthening Ukraine's air defence

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has discussed air defence and military support with Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten.

Source: Zelenskyy on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda

Details: Zelenskyy noted an opportunity to improve the performance of the F-16s the Netherlands has provided to Ukraine.

Quote from Zelenskyy: "Rob Jetten and I discussed how to provide greater protection for lives against Russia's escalation with jet-powered Shaheds. A significant share of these drones are shot down specifically by the F-16s that the Netherlands transferred to Ukraine, and there are opportunities to support their operation with the necessary means. We also discussed other ideas for protecting critical infrastructure and bolstering air defence. I am grateful for the readiness to help."

Details: In response, Jetten said the Netherlands will help maintain the F-16 aircraft.

"Further strengthening Ukraine's air defences is literally a matter of life and death. For example, Ukraine needs more maintenance, spare parts and ammunition for its F-16 fleet. I have pledged that the Netherlands will assist Ukraine in this regard," the Dutch prime minister wrote.

Zelenskyy also briefed Jetten on a potential trilateral Ukraine-US-Russia meeting. The US side has proposed the UAE as a possible venue for the meeting.

Background:

• Following a conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, Zelenskyy said that Ukrainian pilots will begin training on French Rafale fighter jets in the near future.
• Belgium also plans to provide Ukraine with three F-16 aircraft this year after reaching an agreement with France.

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