EU Defence Chair's Call for Increased Arms to Ukraine

Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Chair of the European Parliament’s Defense Committee, has called for an expansion of arms supplies to Ukraine, urging Germany and other EU nations to take decisive action. She emphasized the importance of delivering F-16 fighter jets as a significant step in supporting Ukraine's defense efforts. Strack-Zimmermann believes that all European states should contribute to Ukraine's military capabilities, including enhancing air defense systems and supplying Taurus cruise missiles, despite differing opinions within the German government. As of late July, Ukraine has begun receiving F-16 fighter jets from its Western allies, with reports indicating that six jets have been delivered from the Netherlands. The Economist notes that a total of ten F-16s have arrived, with additional deliveries expected by the end of the year and more scheduled for 2025. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed that the current fleet is insufficient, highlighting the need for further support from international partners. Former U.S. European Command Chief Ben Hodges has criticized the delays in providing these aircraft, attributing the slow pace to a lack of training opportunities for Ukrainian pilots and language barriers. The deployment of the F-16s has been conducted with a high level of secrecy, utilizing dispersed bases and fortified shelters to maintain operational security. Reports suggest that these jets are also being utilized for air defense purposes, underscoring their strategic importance in the ongoing conflict.