Official statements from NATO countries or coverage by major news outlets

Netherlands Permits Ukraine to Use F-16s for Defense on Russian Territory and Airspace

Oct 17, 2024, 11:25 AM

The Netherlands has officially allowed Ukraine to use the F-16 fighter jets transferred by the Dutch government for defensive purposes, including on Russian territory. Dutch Minister of Defense, Ruben Brekelmans, emphasized that this permission is in accordance with international law, which does not cease at borders or 100 kilometers away. The F-16s can be used to intercept missiles or strike military targets such as airfields in Russia and in Russian airspace. This decision underscores the Netherlands' support for Ukraine's self-defense capabilities amid ongoing tensions with Russia.