President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy began his official visit to the Netherlands by meeting with the country’s Prime Minister, Dick Schoof, in The Hague.
The Head of State noted that The Hague is primarily associated with the rule of law and justice.
“We will continue working to ensure justice and to hold Russia accountable for its crimes. This is extremely important for our families, for all of us. I believe it is important for all of Europe and the entire world, which truly respects values, rights, and the law — and this matters a great deal,” the President emphasized.
Dick Schoof expressed condolences to Ukraine regarding the recent Russian strikes.
“This clearly shows that we must unite against Russian aggression, that we must resist and condemn Russian aggression. As you know, the Netherlands has always supported Ukraine, and we will continue to do so both in times of war and peace. We will provide financial, military, and political support,” he said.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the Netherlands for their assistance, which this year alone will amount to EUR 2.25 billion, calling the country one of the leaders in protecting lives.
The Netherlands announced a new defense support package worth approximately EUR 175 million. This includes, among other things, 100 radars for drone detection. Additionally, the Netherlands is allocating EUR 80 million for drones within the drone coalition and providing 20 Ermine CASEVAC modular unmanned vehicles for evacuating the wounded.
The President also highlighted contracts recently signed with Ukrainian UAV manufacturers totaling nearly EUR 500 million. This will enable the provision of 600,000 drones to Ukrainian warriors on the frontline.
Furthermore, the leaders discussed prospects for joint production of drones in the Netherlands for Ukraine, based on Ukrainian technologies.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that Russia does not intend to stop its aggressive plans against Ukraine, as evidenced by recent statements and actions by Vladimir Putin. Therefore, pushing the aggressor toward genuine peace negotiations is only possible through coordinated pressure, including sanctions.
According to the Head of State, sanctions should target the Russian Federation’s energy and banking sectors, its shadow fleet, including captains and terminals. In addition, the price cap on Russian oil must be lowered.
The meeting also covered Ukraine’s path toward European integration and political support from the Netherlands regarding the opening of negotiation clusters.
