In the Swedish city of Linköping, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Prime Minister of Sweden Ulf Kristersson.
The Head of State expressed gratitude for USD 4 billion in military assistance allocated to our state this year and for all the support provided.
One of the key topics of discussion was the strengthening of Ukraine’s defense capabilities. In particular, our state is considering the JAS 39 Gripen aircraft as one of the most effective elements of this effort and expects to receive the first Gripens in 2026. The parties also discussed the training of Ukrainian pilots to operate these fighter jets.
On the grounds of Linköping Airport, owned by the Swedish company Saab, the leaders were shown the capabilities of the Gripen fighter jets during a several-minute air show, in particular, rapid takeoff and landing, aircraft maneuverability, and the skills of the pilots operating them.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Ulf Kristersson also discussed the situation with air defense and the implementation of the PURL initiative. Sweden was among the first to allocate USD 275 million together with Norway and Denmark, for a total of USD 500 million, and is ready to expand its participation in the program.
Special attention was given to Ukraine’s energy sector, which continues to suffer from Russia’s constant attacks. The leaders discussed our country’s urgent needs: equipment for emergency and repair work, machinery for gas extraction facilities, and financing for the purchase of natural gas.
In addition, the Head of State informed the Swedish Prime Minister about ongoing communication with the United States and other partners.
“The fact is that Russia responds only to strength – the strength of pressure. That is why we have put the issue of our long-range capabilities, namely Tomahawks, on the agenda with our partners,” said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The President of Ukraine and the Prime Minister of Sweden also coordinated their positions ahead of this week’s meetings in Europe – the European Council session in Brussels and the Coalition of the Willing in London.
