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Helping Ukraine defend itself is not a choice, it is a must

May 30, 2023

The Netherlands is committed to supporting Ukraine in every way possible, from strengthening its air defense systems to starting training for F-16 pilots as soon as possible.

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Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte tweeted about this.

"Kyiv has once again been the target of barbaric air strikes, fortunately with limited effect thanks to the Patriot air defense system. I have just spoken to Zelensky and confirmed that the Netherlands is ready to support Ukraine in every way possible; from strengthening air defense systems to starting training for F-16 pilots as soon as possible. Helping Ukraine defend itself is not a choice, it is a must. The Netherlands will continue to support Ukraine for as long as it takes. Assistance to Ukraine will also be a key item on the agenda of the European Political Community summit in Chisinau on Thursday," the statement said.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, the Dutch government is studying and discussing with its allies the possibility of transferring F-16 aircraft to Ukraine after pilot training.

The Netherlands has 42 F-16 fighters in service, 24 of which are used by the army and cannot be sent to Ukraine until mid-2024. Of the remaining 18 aircraft, 10 were to be sold to Draken International, but in December 2022, the government postponed the deal without explanation, citing commercial confidentiality.

The publication notes that Ukraine may receive some of the F-16s that are prepared for sale, or some of the 24 aircraft currently used by the Dutch army, in 2024, depending on the training schedule.

Denmark and the Netherlands will lead a coalition to train Ukrainian pilots on F-16s. Next month, in cooperation with the United States, these countries will begin to develop a training base for comprehensive training of Ukrainian pilots. Norway, Belgium, Portugal, and Poland have also offered to contribute.

Author - Serhii Kolomiets, 30/05/2023

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