The Netherlands To Allocate €2 Billion For Military Assistance to Ukraine in 2024
The government of the Netherlands has decided to allocate over 2 billion euros for military support to Ukraine throughout 2024.
This announcement comes from the official page of the Ministry of Defense of the Netherlands.
"The Netherlands continues to steadfastly support Ukraine. For 2024, the Dutch government has earmarked over 2 billion euros. This amount is primarily intended for military support. Ukraine will significantly need it in 2024," the statement said.
According to the announcement, the allocated funds will be directed towards ammunition, technical maintenance of already supplied platforms and systems, as well as strengthening Ukraine's air defense capabilities.
Moreover, the Netherlands will continue to search for more technologically advanced equipment for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. In 2024, the country will also continue to train Ukrainian military personnel.
The support will be provided through commercial purchases, supplies from the reserves of the Armed Forces of the Netherlands, and joint instruments with international partners.
Apart from that, funds will be allocated for the restoration and reconstruction of damaged infrastructure and the improvement of Ukraine's cybersecurity.
"The Netherlands consistently supports Ukraine. With this significant amount, we send a clear signal: Ukraine could and can continue to count on us," emphasized Kajsa Ollongren, the Minister of Defense of the Netherlands.
It's worth noting that the Netherlands has been a reliable partner for Ukraine in countering Russian aggression. This includes the transfer of crucial American F-16 fighters to Kyiv.
This August, the Netherlands, together with Denmark, announced the joint transfer of 42 aircraft for Ukrainian pilots. Subsequently, the Netherlands also contributed to the opening of a pilot training center in Romania.
Currently, Ukrainian pilots are already undergoing training, and the Royal Netherlands Air Force is deploying training aircraft to the airbase in Romania.
It is expected that the total number of F16s will reach 18 aircraft. According to the Commander of the Armed Forces of the Netherlands, General Onno Eichelsheim, the fighters will be delivered to the training center in Romania by the beginning of the new year.