Zelenskyy seeks more F-16 jets as Russian strikes hit Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged Belgium to provide additional F-16 fighter jets, ammunition and stronger air defence support as Russian attacks on energy infrastructure continue to disrupt electricity supplies across Ukraine.

During meetings with Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever and King Philippe, Zelenskyy stressed the urgent need to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to intercept Russian missiles and drones, warning that continued attacks were also hampering efforts to repair damaged infrastructure.

In a post on X late Thursday, Zelenskyy said Russian strikes on energy facilities had left nearly 15,000 people without electricity in the Volyn region. Parts of Kyiv and the surrounding region were also experiencing partial power outages.

He warned that the possibility of further Russian attacks was preventing repair crews from starting restoration work in some communities, prolonging the disruption for residents already affected by the strikes.

The attacks have placed renewed focus on Ukraine’s air defence capabilities as the country seeks to protect critical infrastructure from repeated aerial assaults.

Ukraine seeks additional F-16 fighter jets

Zelenskyy said F-16 fighter jets were playing an important role in intercepting Russian jet-powered Shahed drones, highlighting their contribution to Ukraine’s defence against aerial threats.

During his discussions with De Wever, the Ukrainian president sought to accelerate efforts to secure additional aircraft from Belgium. The two leaders also discussed the possibility of supplying more ammunition for the fighter jets, according to Zelenskyy’s statement.

The request comes as Kyiv continues to press its international partners for military equipment and defensive capabilities to counter Russian attacks.

Additional aircraft and ammunition could help Ukraine strengthen its ability to respond to incoming threats, particularly as strikes on energy facilities threaten electricity supplies and complicate repair operations.

Zelenskyy urges Belgium to maintain pressure on Russia

During his audience with King Philippe, Zelenskyy thanked Belgium for its continued support and called for stronger air defences against Russian missile and drone attacks.

He also raised the issue of frozen Russian assets, urging Belgium and other European partners to ensure the funds remain immobilised throughout the war.

Zelenskyy argued that Moscow should not regain access to financial resources that could be used to finance further military operations or destabilise Europe.

The issue of frozen Russian assets has remained an important part of discussions among Ukraine’s allies over how to maintain pressure on Moscow and support Kyiv.

Ukraine continues to rely on military and financial assistance from European partners as Russian attacks threaten civilian infrastructure and essential services.

Zelenskyy’s latest appeal to Belgium underscores Kyiv’s immediate priorities: securing more fighter jets and ammunition, protecting energy facilities and preventing further disruption to electricity supplies as the war continues.