Modern Weapons and Energy Network Reinforcement: Italy and the Netherlands Announce New Aid Packages for Ukraine
On 16 January, Dutch Foreign Minister Kaspar Veldkamp visited Kyiv and announced €27 million in aid, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said. Of the total amount, 20 million euros will be used to strengthen Ukraine's energy grid, which has been damaged by Russian missile and drone attacks. The money will be used to repair damaged power facilities.
Another €7 million has been allocated to NATO's Comprehensive Assistance Package for Ukraine. As part of this package, the Alliance is providing Ukraine with fuel, medicines, winter gear, and more.
During his visit to Kyiv, Veldkamp held talks with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga and Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration Olha Stefanishyna.
Italy also provided Ukraine with a new military aid package the day before, including modern weapons that will help it to retaliate against Russia. These weapons are already on their way to Ukraine, Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustam Umerov said after meeting with his Italian counterpart Guido Crozetto in Kyiv. At the meeting, the defence ministers agreed to strengthen cooperation and discussed joining forces in the defence industry. Representatives of Ukraine's military structures spoke about the situation on the battlefield and the army's priority needs.
In turn, Crozetto reaffirmed Italy's strong support for Ukraine and stressed the importance of expanding the Ramstein format. In the near future, joint ventures and other initiatives are planned to be launched to provide maximum support to the Ukrainian defence sector.