Kyiv - Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced on Sunday that the Netherlands and Denmark are committed to transferring their F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine once the necessary conditions for the transfer are met. This declaration was made during a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who was on an official visit to the Netherlands. Rutte stated, "Today we can announce that the Netherlands and Denmark commit to the transfer of F-16 aircraft to Ukraine and the Ukrainian Air Force," in collaboration with the United States and other allied nations.

Rutte indicated that the Netherlands possesses a total of 42 F-16 fighter jets; however, he noted that it is premature to confirm whether all of them will be donated to Kyiv, according to a report by Reuters. The Danish foreign ministry also confirmed the pledge to deliver F-16s in a statement issued on Sunday.

Zelenskyy celebrated the decision as a "historic" breakthrough agreement. Although he acknowledged that the exact number of aircraft to be transferred will be determined at a later stage, he expressed optimism that these planes would bolster Ukraine's air defenses and contribute to its counter-offensive efforts. He emphasized the importance of air defense, particularly with the upcoming winter months and the nation's understanding of the impact of winter without electricity.

The Ukrainian President's visit to the Netherlands preceded a planned visit to Denmark later in the day.

Rutte clarified that the immediate transfer of the fighter jets will not take place. Instead, there will be a period of time required to adequately train Ukrainian pilots and establish the necessary infrastructure for the aircraft's utilization. "Military training will commence in the near future, and thereafter, some time will be needed for the planes to become operational with well-trained pilots. We will make every effort to expedite this process," Rutte explained.