KYIV — Belgium confirmed on Thursday it had begun transferring F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, delivering the first of three aircraft pledged for this year. The handover follows discussions between President Volodymyr Zelensky and Belgian officials this week.

Zelensky said on Wednesday that Belgium would provide three F-16s by the end of 2026, part of a broader European effort to strengthen Ukraine's air defences before winter. The Ukrainian air force has used previously delivered F-16s to intercept Russian missiles and drones targeting power plants and substations.

Russia has escalated its bombardment of Ukraine's energy infrastructure, with repeated large-scale drone and missile barrages against Kyiv and regional grids in recent weeks. Ukrainian officials have warned of the harshest winter yet for civilians dependent on damaged heating and electricity networks.

Belgium had committed to supplying Ukraine with a total of 30 F-16s over several years, though earlier deliveries were delayed by pilot training and maintenance requirements. A Belgian defence ministry spokesperson said Brussels remained committed to the full delivery schedule despite domestic budget pressures.

Zelensky framed the transfer as evidence of enduring European support. "Every aircraft that reaches our pilots helps us protect Ukrainian cities and lives this winter," he said in remarks released by his office.