Drones for Ukraine: the Netherlands provides a further 250 million euros for the Drone Line Initiative

Once again, the Netherlands is providing 250 million euros for drones for Ukraine; the recipients are the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The money is being reallocated from funds already earmarked as military aid. The Dutch contribution to the so-called Drone Line Initiative thus reaches a total of 1 billion euros.

Drones for Ukraine via the Drone Line Initiative

Defence Minister Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius announced the new pledge today at a meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG). The Netherlands is also supplying additional munitions for the F-16 jets.

We must be fully aware: every euro for Ukraine is a direct investment in our own security. This applies in particular to our drone support. The Ukrainians have indicated how successful it has been. It has ensured that the Ukrainian lines were not broken through— Defence Minister Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius

Because it is failing to achieve success on the battlefield, Russia is intensifying its air terror against Ukrainian cities. Apart from drone support, air defence therefore remains one of the top priorities.

Fighter aircraft and munitions

The Netherlands holds an important position in the F-16 coalition for Ukraine and has handed over 24 aircraft of this type. The jets have proved highly effective against Russian drones and cruise missiles.

Our F-16s have literally saved lives. I am proud of that. But to keep doing so, money and munitions are needed. We are delivering. It is important that all European allies do so. Everyone must make their fair contribution. Not only out of solidarity, but because it serves our common security— Defence Minister Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius

New Anti-Ballistic Missile Coalition

The minister also spoke positively about the recently launched Anti-Ballistic Missile Coalition. This alliance has an important task in defending Ukraine and Europe against ballistic missiles. The Netherlands intends to play an active part and urged speed so that Russia's threat from this weapon can quickly be countered more effectively.

Ten countries are taking part in the Freyja anti-ballistic programme, a joint European project: Ukraine, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom.

Meeting of the Contact Group

More than 50 countries are represented in the Ukraine Defence Contact Group by their defence ministers; together they coordinate military support for Ukraine there.

The United Kingdom pledged 100 million pounds (116 million euros) for purchases of American weapons; it also delivered 95,000 drones by the end of the year. Norway, for its part, confirmed a previously announced package: 200 million dollars (172 million euros) for the procurement of Patriot missiles.