Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans announced that the Netherlands will provide Ukraine with a new military aid package, which includes components and missiles for the Patriot air defense system.
"Ukraine urgently needs strengthened air defense and ammunition. The Netherlands will be the first NATO country to deliver a package of American-made weapon systems worth €500 million, including Patriot system components and missiles," Brekelmans wrote on social media platform X.
This latest package highlights the Netherlands’ commitment to supporting Ukraine in countering ongoing Russian aggression.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed gratitude to the Netherlands for its significant contribution to enhancing Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.
"Ukraine — and therefore all of Europe — will now have greater protection against Russian terror. I am sincerely grateful to the Netherlands for their substantial support in strengthening Ukraine’s air shield. I just discussed this with Prime Minister Dick Schoof. The €500 million package includes U.S.-made weapons, notably Patriot missiles. It’s the first such step among NATO countries, and it comes at a time when Russia is trying to escalate its attacks," Zelensky wrote on Telegram, as reported by Ukrinform.
He emphasized that the assistance will help save Ukrainian lives.
"This decision is one of the tangible outcomes of the NATO summit in The Hague. I thank NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte for his determination in reinforcing our defense, and I’m grateful to Dick Schoof for today’s decision. We look forward to welcoming him to Ukraine," the President added.
