Germany Rules Out Fighter Jet Supply to Ukraine Amid Opposition Pressure

Germany's government has firmly stated it will not supply fighter jets to Ukraine, following comments from Friedrich Merz, leader of the opposition CDU/EPP party. A government spokesperson emphasized that the lack of F-16s in Germany's arsenal and the complexities of operating different aircraft types were key reasons for this decision. The spokesperson noted that while various fighter jets may appear similar, they require distinct handling and long-term training, making a hasty transfer impractical. Merz had previously suggested that the delivery of fighter jets to Ukraine was already underway in several European nations, urging Germany not to lag behind. Countries such as Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway have committed to providing US-made F-16s, with Ukrainian pilots nearing completion of their training. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has indicated that these jets could be operational in Ukraine by summer. Germany's military capabilities are primarily centered around the Eurofighter Typhoon, and it does not possess any F-16s. The Kiel Institute for the World Economy reports that Germany has contributed €10.2 billion in military aid to Ukraine since January 2022. Recently, Germany, alongside the US and Romania, announced the provision of five additional air defense systems, including US-made Patriots. A Defence Ministry spokesperson reiterated the importance of focusing on each country's strengths rather than attempting to fulfill all military needs, suggesting a more coordinated approach to support Ukraine.