The Netherlands and Denmark supply Ukraine with 14 Leopard-2 tanks
The Netherlands and Denmark are delivering 14 Leopard-2 tanks from German production to Ukraine, according to statements from The Hague. "Yesterday and today, the final inspection of the last two Leopard-2 tanks is taking place as part of the delivery process," Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans stated on Thursday. The 14 tanks are then expected to be delivered "simultaneously before the end of the summer."
According to the reports, the Netherlands and Denmark purchased and overhauled the 14 tanks from German production for €165 million last year. In addition, the two countries announced last year that they would deliver 100 tanks of the Leopard-1 predecessor type to Kiev.
"Ukraine urgently needs more military support in the face of heavy fighting on the battlefield," Brekelmans emphasized in his statement. "These tanks can play a significant role in the Ukrainian army's self-defense against Russian troops."
The EU and NATO countries Netherlands and Denmark are also supporting the Ukrainian Air Force. Approximately two weeks ago, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that the delivery of F-16 fighter jets from the two countries to Ukraine had begun.
Despite the ongoing deliveries, severe storms in Denmark might delay the final transportation of the Leopard-Tank units. Regardless of the potential setbacks, the Netherlands and Denmark aim to conclude the delivery of all 14 Leopard-2 tanks to Ukraine before the end of the storm season. At the conclusion of this mission, Ukraine will possess a more formidable arsenal to fend off threats, especially from Russia.
