Kiev: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte have solidified a significant agreement on security cooperation between their respective nations. The pact, signed in the eastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, underscores a strengthened alliance aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s security infrastructure.
According to reports from the presidential press service and Xinhua news agency, the 10-year deal aligns with the G7’s collective declaration of support for Ukraine. As part of this agreement, the Netherlands has committed to providing substantial military aid totaling 2 billion euros (approximately $2.17 billion) in 2024, with ongoing support anticipated for the future.
Key provisions of the agreement include the Netherlands’ pledge to supply Ukraine with advanced military equipment, encompassing air defense systems, artillery, and armored vehicles. Additionally, the Netherlands will extend support to enhance Ukraine’s air forces, maritime capabilities, and long-range defenses.
Importantly, the Netherlands has reiterated its steadfast backing for Ukraine’s aspirations to join both the European Union and NATO, reinforcing the shared strategic objectives of the two nations.
This deal builds upon prior support extended by the Netherlands, which provided 1.6 billion euros (around $1.73 billion) in military assistance to Ukraine in the previous year. With this renewed commitment, Ukraine can anticipate enhanced security capabilities and continued collaboration in pursuit of its broader geopolitical goals.