Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson stated that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin must be forced to sit down at the negotiating table to end the war in Ukraine. He also emphasized the need to increase pressure on Russia by confiscating Russian assets in Europe.
A bus crashed into a bus stop in central Stockholm, killing and injuring several people. The bus driver has been arrested and an investigation into involuntary manslaughter has been launched.
Ukrainian and Swedish sides are making progress on financing a deal that could include Kyiv's purchase of up to 150 Gripen E fighter jets. Stockholm is considering export credits, frozen Russian assets, and an aid program for Ukraine to cover part of the costs.
Ukraine is counting on the supply of 150 JAS 39 Gripen aircraft, the first of which should appear next year. President Zelenskyy stated that these aircraft are part of Ukraine's security guarantees.
Ukraine can receive up to 150 JAS 39 Gripen E fighters within three years. These aircraft can take off from highways and can carry Meteor, IRIS-T, and Taurus missiles.
Yurii Ihnat, head of the communications department of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, stated that the production and transfer of Gripen fighters is a complex and lengthy process. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson believes that the delivery of the aircraft could begin within three years.
Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever doubts the legal basis for using Russian assets for Ukraine and demands guarantees from all EU member states. He warns of risks for Belgium and threatens to block the decision without proper risk sharing.
Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson stated that payment for 100-150 Jas Gripen fighter jets for Ukraine is possible using frozen Russian assets. The cost of 100 Jas Gripen E model aircraft is estimated at $8.5 billion.
The Swedish Embassy in Ukraine published a funny photo of a cat at the controls of a Gripen fighter, commenting on the future supply of these aircraft. This was a reaction to the signing of a letter of cooperation between Ukraine and Sweden on the development of air capabilities.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson stated that the delivery of JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets in the E modification to Ukraine is possible within three years. This is due to the fact that the production of these aircraft is only just beginning.
President Zelenskyy stated that he is more optimistic about the end of the war compared to 9 months ago. He noted the significant work done and improved relations with the United States.
Filashkin reported that approximately 1,200 and 5,000 people remain in the frontline cities of Pokrovsk and Kostiantynivka, respectively.
Ukraine and Sweden have signed a letter of intent on cooperation in the development of air capabilities. As part of a future agreement, Ukraine will be able to purchase up to 150 JAS 39 Gripen aircraft in the E modification.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is on a visit to Sweden. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson welcomed him, emphasizing the importance of a strong Ukraine for Sweden.
Danish Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard stated that hybrid attacks have become a new reality for Europe, comparing them to the events of September 11, 2001. Sweden has provided Denmark with equipment to combat drones and is cooperating with the police ahead of summits in Copenhagen.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson suggested that Russia might be involved in drone flights over Scandinavian airports.
France and Sweden have sent military personnel and specialized systems to counter drones to Denmark ahead of two summits in Copenhagen. This was in response to drone incidents that caused flight delays.
Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson called on Europe to change its approach to security and prepare for potential military threats due to the strengthening of Russian military power. He emphasized the need for coordination among all NATO member states.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson announced a 2. 4 billion euro increase in defense spending, the largest increase since the Cold War. The additional funds will be used to purchase equipment and facilities, including air defense systems and combat vehicles.
In 2022, after the Swedish Prime Minister's visit to Turkey, an official forgot a folder with partially classified documents regarding NATO accession negotiations in a toilet at Arlanda Airport. It was found by a cleaner, raising security concerns.
Dozens of heads of state and government, including the US and China, sent congratulations to Ukraine on the occasion of the 34th anniversary of Independence. President Zelenskyy thanked for the support in the fight against Russian aggression.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a phone conversation with President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. They discussed the efforts of civilized countries to achieve peace in Ukraine and energy cooperation.
President Zelenskyy discussed the diplomatic situation and steps to end the war with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. Sweden has allocated $4 billion in defense aid to Ukraine.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson admitted that he regularly uses AI, such as ChatGPT, to get "another opinion. " This drew criticism, but his spokesperson assured that "sensitive information is not used."
Sweden, Denmark, and Norway are allocating $486 million for the purchase of American weapons for Ukraine. This will increase the potential for protecting lives and serves as an example for other NATO countries.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson announced the continuation of rapid and substantial deliveries to Ukraine. He welcomed Trump's decision on modern weapons and increased economic pressure on Russia.
Sweden is strengthening control over ships in the Baltic Sea to counter the Russian "shadow fleet" used to circumvent sanctions. Gathering information about ships will form the basis for sanctions.
Leaders of Northern European countries announced the deepening of cooperation in the field of security. This is happening against the background of increasing threats from Moscow and pressure from Washington.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, discussing support, strengthening air defense, and investments in drone production. He also held talks with the leaders of Denmark, Moldova, Bulgaria, and Sweden.
Zelenskyy discussed with the Prime Minister of Sweden the results of negotiations in Turkey and increased pressure on Russia. The parties also focused on cooperation within the coalition of willing parties.