Denmark Has Increased its Military Assistance Package to Ukraine to $830 Million
The Ministry of Defense of Denmark announced the provision of the largest military assistance package since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, totaling 5.8 billion Danish kroner ($833 million USD).
This was reported on the official website of the Ministry of Defense of Denmark.
"For Ukraine, which continues to defend itself against Russia's illegal invasion, it is extremely important that countries like Denmark continue to provide military and economic support to Ukraine. We are now doing this through the largest Danish financial contribution to date under the auspices of a group of countries that regularly meet at Ramstein under American leadership," said Danish Minister of Defense Troels Lund Poulsen.
This marks the 12th military support package from Denmark to Ukraine. This time, it will be divided into three stages: assistance of $617 million will be provided this year, an additional $209 million in 2024, and $7 million in 2025, respectively.
The Ministry of Defense also noted that the package would be financed by the Ukrainian Fund, which, in coordination with international partners, will provide a series of "necessary resources" to support Ukrainian military personnel in their fight against Russian aggressors. The package will include tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, tank ammunition, and anti-aircraft guns, among other items.
In addition, according to Denmark's Minister of Foreign Affairs Lars Løkke Rasmussen, the new aid package represents a transition to a "new phase." Since Denmark's defense reserves are nearly depleted, the country is exploring "more targeted joint procurement and international cooperation" that aligns with Ukraine's needs "here and now."
Now, the assistance package for Ukraine must go through the approval process in Denmark's financial committee.
It is worth noting that Denmark was one of the first countries to agree to transfer a fleet of American F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. According to experts, these aircraft will partially balance the overwhelming dominance of Russian aviation in Ukrainian airspace and provide additional capabilities for Ukrainian military personnel to defend against Russian attacks.
Denmark announced its readiness to provide Ukraine with 19 fighter jets.
"I am proud that Denmark, together with the Netherlands, will hand over F-16 fighter jets to support Ukraine in its fight for freedom against Russia and its senseless aggression. Denmark's support for Ukraine is unwavering, and with the transfer of F-16 fighter jets, Denmark is a leader in this matter," said Danish Minister of Defense Jakob Ellemann-Jensen.
It is expected that the first group of six aircraft will be sent to Ukraine closer to the new year, with another eight arriving in 2024 and the remaining five in 2025.