Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a meeting with Dutch Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra.
One of the key topics discussed was Ukraine’s energy situation. The President briefed on the daily Russian strikes targeting Ukraine’s energy and gas infrastructure as well as the water supply system. Wopke Hoekstra informed that the Netherlands would provide an additional € 25 million to support Ukraine’s energy sector.
“We are very grateful for this. Today, for us, one of the most important things is a strong army, strong air defense, and the ability to strengthen our energy sector. Recently, a decision was made to organize a coalition to support Ukraine’s energy sector and energy security. I am very thankful that in this team we immediately felt the support of Norway, the Netherlands, and personally European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen,” Zelensky said.
The meeting also addressed the potential use of frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s benefit. The Netherlands supports this initiative, as well as the importance of increasing pressure on Russia. Zelensky thanked the Netherlands for participating in adopting the EU’s 19th sanctions package and discussed preparations for the next one with Hoekstra.
Additionally, the discussion covered holding Russia accountable for war crimes. Ukraine expressed gratitude to the Netherlands for their role in establishing the Special Tribunal on Russian aggression against Ukraine and for the decision to host the tribunal in The Hague.
Wopke Hoekstra assured that Ukraine can continue to rely on the Netherlands’ support.
“The Netherlands will stand with Ukraine as long as needed, whether in military support, where we were among the leaders in assisting your country, in financial support, where we are now actively supporting the use of frozen Russian assets to provide greater financial aid and stability, or in the field of justice,” he stated.
