Mette Frederiksen withholds comment on F-16 use
Danish PM Mette Frederiksen refrained from echoing Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen’s remarks that donated F-16s to Ukraine could operate in Russian territory. While attending a Nordic summit in Stockholm, she confirmed Ukraine’s right to self-defense under international law but avoided discussing specifics about the F-16 jets. Poulsen had highlighted that Ukraine, soon receiving 19 F-16s from Denmark, could target military objectives in Russia, where forces attacking Ukraine are positioned. Nonetheless, Denmark does not suggest that these jets be used for bombing campaigns in Moscow. The use of western-donated weapons inside Russia has sparked debates in Europe. Countries like France and Germany agree that Ukraine can use the donations against Russian targets if lawful. Previously, Denmark and Belgium had insisted such arms be restricted to Ukraine’s territory only.