No German fighter jets for Ukraine despite calls amid European, US commitments

Germany has clarified its position on supplying fighter jets to Ukraine, dismissing suggestions made by Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany’s main opposition party.

In response to comments from Germany’s conservative CDU/EPP leader, the three-party government stated on Monday that it would not provide fighter jets to Ukraine because of a lack of F-16s.

According to Euractive, a government spokesperson emphasized the impracticality of transferring various fighter jets to Ukraine, regardless of potential suppliers. The spokesperson highlighted the significant differences in handling different fighter plane models, emphasizing the crucial importance of long-term training.

In a televised interview, Merz asserted that many countries worldwide, including several in Europe, have already committed to delivering fighter jets to Ukraine, suggesting Germany should not abstain from similar actions.

Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands and Norway have pledged to supply Ukraine with U.S.-made F-16 fighter jets. The first Ukrainian pilots are expected to complete their training on these jets soon, and deployments are anticipated in the coming months.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that F-16s would be operational in Ukraine by the summer. Unlike these countries, Germany centers its air combat capabilities around the Eurofighter Typhoon, excluding American jets from its armed forces.

According to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, Germany has contributed €10.2 billion in military assistance to Ukraine between January 2022 and April 2024. Recently, Germany, the U.S., and Romania pledged five additional air defense systems, including U.S.-made Patriots.

A spokesperson from Germany’s Defense Ministry added on Monday that concentrating efforts on areas where countries and groups excel is more effective than attempting broad involvement across all capabilities.

This strategic approach aims to enhance support for Ukraine amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.