News item | 26-02-2022 | 08:36
Russia falls Ukraine to† on February 26 inthe cabinet formed the House of Representatives about the current situation in Ukraine, the Dutch positions, Dutch support for Ukraine and the sanctions imposed on Russia in an EU context. These are a number of important points from the letter to parliament.
Read the entire letter to Parliament about developments in and around Ukraine.
The situation in Ukraine
The Russian armed forces have bombed targets across Ukraine with missiles and planes, including in cities such as Kharkiv and Odesa and Kyiv’s main airport. From Russia, Belarus and Crimea – illegally annexed by Russia – Russian armed forces have embarked on a large-scale military offensive.
This raid is another step in the escalation that began with a major build-up by Russia of troops and equipment on Ukraine’s borders.
Danger and uncertainty for the Ukrainian people
An uncertain and dangerous time has come for Ukrainians. At the time of the publication of the letter to parliament, an estimated 137 Ukrainian citizens have been killed and 316 injured. Ukrainians en masse are looking for a safe haven, in Ukraine itself, but also abroad.
Position of the Netherlands
The cabinet condemns the Russian invasion of Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. Despite all international calls to de-escalate and opt for diplomacy, Moscow has knowingly opted for a large-scale military intervention. Russia is thus committing a cowardly act of aggression against the Ukrainian people, whom Moscow has consistently claimed to be a brother nation.
Russia is responsible
It is clear to the cabinet that Russia, and Russia alone, is responsible for this invasion and for the great humanitarian, economic, political and social toll it takes on the Ukrainian population. There is no justification whatsoever for this use of violence.
The cabinet emphasizes that this invasion is the work of the Russian government, not the Russian population. In recent weeks, the Kremlin has also fooled the Russian people into thinking they have no plans to invade Ukraine. The Russian invasion is unacceptable and cannot go unanswered.
The cabinet is also looking at the facilitating role Belarus plays in Russia’s aggression. This aid is contrary to international law
Support to Ukraine
The cabinet reiterates its support for Ukraine’s independence and land borders, which are internationally recognised. The Netherlands provides political, financial and humanitarian support, also in the EU and UN context. The Netherlands also supplies military goods to Ukraine.
The Netherlands supports a strong and united response, together with the EU, NATO, partners, allies and other like-minded countries, and in close consultation with Ukraine. The answer should make it clear to Russia and Belarus that aggression comes at a high price.
Sanctions
In response to the Russian invasion, the EU adopted a robust sanctions package. It has been agreed that far-reaching financial, economic and individual sanctions will be introduced with major consequences for the Russian economy and for those in power in Russia. With these sanctions, the EU is making it clear that Russian aggression against Ukraine is unacceptable.
These sanctions will also affect trade between the Netherlands and Russia. Dutch businesses will also be harmed as a result. In addition, Russian countermeasures cannot be ruled out.
Changed Travel Advice
Due to the unpredictable security situation, the travel advice of Ukraine, Belarus, Russia and Moldova has changed. Whatever your situation, do not go to countries or areas with a red travel advice. View the current travel advice on the Netherlands Worldwide: