Zelensky confirmed the visit in a post to X and said "we are preparing a major defense package for Ukraine and a strong step regarding Gripen fighter jets, which will definitely make our combat aviation more effective."

Newspaper Aftonbladet reported that Sweden would announce the donation of JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets of the older C and D models to Ukraine and launch negotiations for the sale of the more recent E model to Kyiv.

The two countries signed a letter of intent in October 2025 on Kyiv's purchase of 100 to 150 Gripen E aircraft.

Zelensky and Kristersson were to hold a joint press conference at 1100 GMT at an air base in Uppsala, around 70 kilometres (45 miles) north of Stockholm.

The letter of intent was non-binding and did not provide specific dates, but Kristersson said at the time that the first planes could be delivered to Ukraine "within three years" if everything went to plan.

"The Gripen is a priority for our army," Zelensky said at the time.

Sweden had previously suspended plans to send Gripen jets to Ukraine after partner countries requested that priority be given to American F-16s.