Prime Minister Rutte (VVD) was in the Ukrainian capital Kiev on Monday to show support for the population and government of President Zelensky, with whom he had a meeting later in the day. It was the first time since the start of the war that Rutte was in Ukraine. He said the war could last longer than hoped and thought. “But that doesn’t mean we can sit back and watch.” The prime minister stated that the international community should provide continuous and open political support – such as EU membership prospects – as well as military support. President Zelensky said on Telegram that he is grateful to Rutte for the constructive consultations, the decision to supply heavy weapons to the Ukrainian troops, and the support for the candidate for EU membership. (NRC)
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A version of this article also appeared in the newspaper of 12 July 2022