Russia Warns Denmark‘s F-16 Transfer to Ukraine Will Escalate Conflict; Danish Minister Calls It Propagandistic Threat
Russia has responded to Denmark’s delivery of a second batch of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, warning that the move could exacerbate the conflict. In a statement to RIA Novosti, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov described the decision as provocative, stating it would necessitate "adequate measures," including military and technical responses.
However, Defense Minister of Denmark, Troels Lund Poulsen, dismissed Russia’s comments as a mere propaganda tactic aimed at intimidating countries that support Ukraine’s struggle for freedom. Speaking to TV2, Poulsen reassured the Danish public that there is no direct military threat from Russia, thanks to Denmark’s membership in NATO.
Russia’s potential retaliation, according to Poulsen, could involve disruptions to weapon supplies and pilot training in Denmark. However, he sees these threats as evidence that Denmark and Europe should continue to support Ukraine.
Denmark, a staunch ally of Ukraine since the beginning of the full-scale war, recently signed a security cooperation agreement with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The country has provided military aid to Ukraine and is set to deliver 19 U.S.-made F-16 jets, with the first six already on Danish soil.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lars Lekke Rasmussen, took to X to dismiss Lavrov’s threats, stating that Denmark will continue to support Ukraine’s right to self-defense.
