Ukraine claims to have shot down three Russian fighter aircraft

Ukraine has said its forces have shot down three Russian fighter aircraft on the southern front of its war with Russia.

President Volodymyr Zelensky and military officials said their forces had taken down Su-34 fighter-bomber jets.

Russia’s military did not reference the incident, but Russian bloggers admitted the loss.

Analysts believe US-Patriot missiles were likely used. News agency Reuters said it could not independently verify reports.

On his official website, Mr Zelensky said: "Grateful to our soldiers who destroyed three Russian Sukhoi aircraft at once. In the South – in our Kherson region.

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"It's the gain of our Air Force and the direct action of the Odesa Anti-Aircraft Missile Brigade. Thank you, guys!

"And may every Russian pilot be well aware of our response to every Russian killer – none of them will go unpunished."

The Netherlands is to make available 18 F-16 aircraft to Ukraine.

It comes as a former commander of US Army Europe has suggested Europe has recently surpassed the United States in terms of its total military contribution to Ukraine and can do even more.

Meanwhile, artillery systems that were supplied to Ukraine by the UK are to be repaired and supported under a new agreement between BAE Systems and AMS Integrated Solutions.

The announcement came after Great Britain conducted its first trade mission to Ukraine with representatives from the defence industry.

During the visit to Kyiv, the two companies signed an agreement that will enable them to offer specialised artillery systems support directly to the Ukrainian armed forces.

In its latest update, the UK's Ministry of Defence (MOD) said troops along the frontline are suffering from high levels of rat and mice infestation.

The MOD explained: "This year’s mild autumn, along with ample food from fields left fallow due to the fighting, have likely contributed to the increase in the rodent population.

"As the weather has become colder, the animals are likely seeking shelter in vehicles and defensive positions. Rodents will add further pressure to front line combatants’ morale."