News item | 31-03-2025 | 09:18
The Netherlands finances a large drone project for Ukraine. This must contribute to the fact that Ukraine at the front is able to stop the Russian attacks. The Netherlands is releasing € 500 million for this. This is part of the € 2 billion gear package in support for 2025.
Minister Ruben Brekelmans and State Secretary Gijs Tuinman announced this. They were in Ukraine in recent days.
The Russian aggression continues with high intensity. For example, DNIPRO was recently hit by a large drone attack, resulting in 4 dead and approximately 20 injuries. Brekelmans and Tuinman visited a hit location the morning after the attack while the fire was still extinguished. They saw the big impact with their own eyes.
During a visit to the headquarters on the eastern front, the ministers spoke with the commander of the army about the current situation at the front and the required support. The Ukrainians indicated that they need a great need for drones, air defense and artillery. The priorities of the Netherlands fit in well with this.
High urgency
Brekelmans: “It was important to announce that we provide Ukraine for € 2 billion accelerated support, including a drone project of € 500 million. These drones make the difference on the battlefield and save lives. In his recent visit to the Netherlands, Minister Umerov asked this with high urgency. the negotiating table. ”
In a personal meeting with Minister Umerov, both ministers discussed the undiminished support of the Netherlands. The gear package of € 2 billion support was discussed in 2025. In addition to the announced drones, accelerated support is provided in the form of air defense, ammunition and maritime equipment. An agreement was also signed to strengthen cooperation between the industries of both countries.
Tuinman: “A close cooperation between our industries is good for both countries. We can learn a lot from the battle experience of Ukraine and vice versa our capacities for this. This leads to more innovation and large -scale production. What is good for Ukraine is good for the Netherlands and vice versa.”