Sweden Pledges $2.7 Billion Military Aid to Ukraine, Gripen Jets Included

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in a joint press conference with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, announced that Sweden has provided military aid of $2.7 billion to Kyiv to strengthen its defence against Russia.

Zelenskyy said more than $2 billion in the support package consists of the Gripen fighter jets, which he said will strengthen Ukraine's air defence. Almost $400 million is provided to fund Kyiv's drone production.

"Today, there is a new support package from Sweden, and this support opens up a new level for us in saving the lives of our people - in protecting our cities and communities. This package, worth $2.7 billion, includes various elements to make us stronger. In particular, it includes funding for drone production - almost $400 million," Zelenskyy announced.

"But most importantly - the Gripens. Swedish fighter jets that will definitely strengthen our air fleet and our air defence,” he added.

“More than $2 billion in support from this package is specifically for the aircraft. We expect to receive the first capabilities - the first Gripens - within the next ten months. For our part, we will do everything possible to make it happen. Importantly, these aircraft will come with the weapons package, which will also help protect us against Russian guided aerial bombs," the Ukrainian President said.

How Will Sweden’s Gripen Fighter Jets Strengthen Ukraine’s Air Defence Against Russia?

The Ukrainian President thanked the Swedish PM for the "strong steps" as he outlined the threat Kyiv continues to face from its neighbour.

Euro News reported that Sweden will donate 16 older models of Gripen fighter jets to Ukraine to boost its air defence. In addition, Kyiv will also purchase 20 latest model Gripen fighter jets.

Furthermore, Zelenskyy mentioned that he has written a letter to the US asking for anti-ballistic Patriot missiles to support its air defence.

"On Tuesday, I sent a special letter on this matter to the President of the United States and the United States Congress - a detailed letter covering all aspects of what is needed and how the supply of a sufficient number of Patriots - missiles and systems - can influence the end of the war," he said.

"We hope for a response, and I am grateful to all senators and members of Congress, to all our friends in the United States who are sympathetic to my appeal," he added.

This comes after the Russian Defence Ministry issued a statement on Monday, warning that it plans to conduct a "series of systematic strikes" on defence industrial facilities in Kyiv.

(With inputs from ANI)