Stamer: The UK and Sweden Will Jointly Provide New Fighter Jets to Ukraine

On the 16th, British Prime Minister Starmer announced during his visit to Kyiv, Ukraine, that the UK will join Sweden in providing 16 modernized new fighter jets to Ukraine.

Starmer, who is about to step down as Prime Minister, made this visit to Kyiv as his last in the capacity of Prime Minister. On that day, he held talks with Ukrainian President Zelensky and jointly attended a press conference.

At the press conference, Starmer stated that the UK, together with Sweden, will transfer 16 Swedish "Gripen" fighter jets to Ukraine, with a total value of 300 million euros, and the cost of manufacturing the fighter jets will be funded by the UK government. He emphasized that this aircraft aid aims to strengthen Ukraine's air defense capabilities, enhance Ukraine's air combat level, and provide support for the security of Ukrainian airspace.

According to information released by the UK Prime Minister's Office, these fighter jets will be delivered to Ukraine by 2029, and dozens of British companies will participate in the production of the aircraft.

Previously, Swedish Prime Minister Kristersson stated on the 14th that Sweden will supply a total of 32 "Gripen" fighter jets to Ukraine, of which 16 are older jets. He did not disclose the date for the transfer of the jets to Ukraine but mentioned that the new and old aircraft will be supplied at different times.

Russia believes that providing weapons to Ukraine does not help negotiations and will directly involve NATO member states in the conflict, describing it as "playing with fire." Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov previously pointed out that any supplies that include weapons to Ukraine will become legitimate targets for Russian strikes. (CCTV reporter Chen Zhansheng)