Netherlands Announces Military Aid of Half a Billion Euros to Ukraine
The Dutch Minister of Defense, Kajsa Ollongren, announced her country's intention to provide Ukraine with 500 million euros for the purchase of ammunition after her visit to Ukraine. She stated that these funds are planned to be allocated by the middle of the next year, as reported by the Dutch publication Het Parool.
Kajsa Ollongren noted that approximately 260 million euros will be spent on artillery shells, while another 240 million euros will go towards tank ammunition. She expressed confidence that Ukraine will be able to effectively continue its resistance if it receives the necessary military equipment in sufficient quantities.
"Ukrainians, whether on the front lines, in cities, or in government, are as resilient as they were at the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion," Ollongren stated.
In addition to this latest package of military assistance, the Netherlands pledged to continue supplying the required ammunition to support Ukraine, offering ongoing, steadfast support in military equipment deliveries. They are committed to providing Ukraine with military aid "as much as necessary," added Ollongren.
During her visit to Ukraine, the Dutch Minister of Defense visited Kharkiv and Kyiv. She also met with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky. Ollongren and the Ukrainian head of state discussed the security of the grain corridor and further assistance to Ukraine. Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his gratitude to the Netherlands for their unwavering support of Ukraine and briefed the Dutch official on the situation on the battlefield.
In addition to events in Ukraine, high-ranking officials also exchanged views on developments in the Middle East. At the end of the meeting, Volodymyr Zelensky awarded Kajsa Ollongren the Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise, Third Class, for her significant personal contribution to strengthening international cooperation and supporting Ukraine's independence and territorial integrity.
It's worth noting that the Netherlands provided their aircraft for the training of Ukrainian pilots at a training center in Romania. In August 2023, the Netherlands also announced the provision of 42 F-16 aircraft to Ukraine, subject to certain conditions, including the completion of a full training course for both pilots and all necessary ground personnel.