Kharkiv, 2 March 2024 (TDI): President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky and Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte have officially inked a 10-year security agreement in Kharkiv, as announced by Zelenskyy.
The comprehensive pact entails significant military support from the Netherlands, with a commitment of 2 billion euros allocated for military aid this year alone.
Over the next decade, additional defense assistance will be provided, focusing on enhancing Ukraine’s air force and bolstering capabilities in air defense, artillery, sea, and long-range capabilities.
The agreement underscores the Netherlands solidarity with Ukraine in repelling Russia’s aggression, aligning with similar commitments made by G7 nations including the U.K., Germany, France, Denmark, Italy, and Canada last July.
Rutte’s clandestine visit to Kharkiv, situated near the volatile border with Russia, highlights the gravity of the security situation. The region faces constant threats from Russian forces, with daily attacks targeting Kharkiv and its surroundings.
During his visit, Rutte witnessed the devastating impact of Russian aggression firsthand, observing the destruction wrought by attacks on residential buildings and paying respects to the victims, including children, who lost their lives due to Russian strikes.
Expressing solidarity with Ukraine, Rutte emphasized the urgent need to prevent Putin’s regime from achieving its goals in this brutal conflict.
He reiterated the Netherlands unwavering support for Ukraine and underscored the importance of international coalition efforts in confronting Russian aggression.
Rutte’s proactive stance in supporting Ukraine is reflective of the Netherlands broader commitment to the cause. The country has taken significant steps, such as spearheading the fighter jet coalition and pledging to deliver 24 F-16 jets to Ukraine.
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Additionally, the Netherlands has pledged substantial financial aid to support Czechia’s initiative to procure ammunition for Ukraine. Rutte’s leadership in these efforts reinforces the Netherlands commitment to standing by Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.
Despite domestic political challenges, including ongoing coalition negotiations following the November 2023 election, Rutte remains resolute in advancing the Netherlands support for Ukraine.
While facing opposition from parties like the far-right Party for Freedom (PVV), Rutte’s commitment to the security cooperation agreement underscores the Netherlands unwavering stance in supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
