Ukraine expects Denmark to join 'jets coalition' – parliament speaker

Ukraine expects Denmark to participate in the international coalition to supply Ukraine with fighter jets.

Ruslan Stefanchuk, chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, said this at a joint briefing with Denmark's Acting Minister of Defense Troels Lund Poulsen, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

"Denmark's decision to provide modern weapons and train our military is an important contribution to the restoration of sovereign control over the territories of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders," Stefanchuk said.

He noted that the Caesar howitzers, Harpoon coastal defense systems, M113 armored personnel carriers and Leopard tanks donated by Denmark had significantly strengthened the defense capability of the Ukrainian state.

"We count on Denmark's participation in the international coalition to provide Ukraine with combat air potential," Stefanchuk said.

He added that fighter jets and the training of Ukrainian pilots would help provide additional protection for Ukraine's airspace, infrastructure and civilian population.

At the same time, he called on Denmark and allies as part of the NATO summit in Vilnius to form a common vision regarding the modalities and timeframe of an invitation for Ukraine to join the military alliance.

Stefanchuk also thanked Denmark for its assistance in demining and the treatment of the Ukrainian military.

Stefanchuk is on an official visit to the Kingdom of Denmark.