Netherlands to help Ukraine with air defense systems

"We had an online discussion with defense ministers on support for Ukraine. The Netherlands will make a substantial contribution to the supply of American air defense systems. The details will be agreed shortly. We are also providing additional air defense assets ourselves: ammunition for F-16s, counter-drone capabilities, radars, etc.," said Dutch Defense Minister Rubea Brekelmans.

"The Russian air terror campaign has recently reached new levels. Russia's goal is simple - to break the unshakable Ukrainian people. We cannot allow this to happen. That is why we want to make a significant contribution to Ukraine's additional air defense. Much has already been done, but more is needed. Only by continuing to support Ukraine tirelessly and massively and by increasing pressure on Russia will we force the Russian Federation to come to the negotiating table. Consultations are underway with the U.S. and other allies on the U.S. initiative to deliver additional weapons systems, including Patriot air defense systems. And it's important that all of Europe contributes. Ukraine is the front line of security from Russian aggression for all of Europe. If Russia can break through, it will immediately pose a greater threat to the rest of Europe and NATO," he said.

Providing air defense is a key priority of the Netherlands' military support for Ukraine.

That is why, in addition to Patriot, they have supplied 24 F-16 fighter jets, related ammunition and spare parts, several anti-aircraft guns and I-HAWK systems.

The Netherlands supplies Ukraine with radars for drone detection and naval vessels equipped with air defense equipment.

Photo: Foreign Ministry Ukraine.