Russian Ambassador complains about F-16 transfer to Ukraine: Danish Defense Minister responds
Minister of Defense of Denmark, Jakob Ellemann-Jensen (Photo: flickr.com/valstskanceleja)
The Russian Ambassador in Copenhagen has complained about the transfer of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, according to TV2.
Russian Ambassador Vladimir Barbin has complained that Denmark's transfer of 19 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine allegedly leads to an escalation of the "conflict."
He states that Denmark's position regarding Ukraine determining the conditions for peace "pushes Ukraine into an abyss and dooms its population to new victims."
The Russian diplomat's statement was responded to by the Danish Minister of Defense, Jakob Ellemann-Jensen. He states that the decision to provide fighter jets should not be seen as "escalation," as it is solely about protecting Ukraine.
"A representative of a country that invaded a peaceful neighbor and kills civilians dares to say that others are escalating the conflict, which they could stop tomorrow by simply saying that now we are heading back to our country," the minister says.
He also adds that the Russian ambassador "should be ashamed."
F-16s for Ukraine
Ukraine needs fighter jets to defend its territory from enemy shelling and to enable its military to compete with the Russians in the air.
Recently, the United States approved the transfer of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and the Netherlands. President's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stated that Ukraine would receive the planes after the pilots' training is completed.
The Netherlands is set to provide Ukraine with 42 fighter jets, while Denmark will provide 19. Ukraine will receive the first group of F-16 fighter jets from Denmark before the New Year.
