The case for sending fighter jets to Ukraine 

Mark Leonard is joined by Gustav Gressel to talk about sending fighter jets to Ukraine

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In recent weeks, the conversation on military aid for Ukraine has shifted from battle tanks to fighter jets. Poland and Slovakia have already delivered Soviet-era MiG-29s, and Ukraine’s leaders have repeately called for the West also to supply modern jets. As with tanks, a decision from the US to supply its own fighters to Kyiv could be highly influential for European governments.  

This week, Mark Leonard welcomes ECFR senior policy fellow, Gustav Gressel, whose recent commentary argues that Ukraine’s allies should supply fighter jets to Ukraine as quickly as possible. But would they arrive in time for the anticipated Ukrainian counter-offensive? How would Putin respond? And what are the risks of escalation? 

This podcast was recorded on 3 May 2023.  

Bookshelf: 

Cover image:
Ukraine will now push for Western fourth generation fighter jets such as the U.S. F-16 after securing supplies of main battle tanks, an adviser to Ukraine’s defence minister said.
Image by picture alliance / abaca | ABACA
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