Netherlands urges EU countries to send Ukraine more air defence systems and missiles from their own stockpiles
The Netherlands has urged European allies to provide Ukraine with additional air defence systems and interceptor missiles from their own stockpiles. The Dutch government stresses that aid to Ukraine must not stop over concerns about their own defence capabilities.
Dutch State Secretary for Defence Derk Boswijk said this at the European Defence and Security Conference in Brussels, Censor.NET reports, citing Rapporteur.
According to Boswijk, the Netherlands understands other countries’ concerns about potentially depleting their own weapons stockpiles. At the same time, the country continues to provide Ukraine with the means to repel Russian air attacks.
"We in the Netherlands understand the concerns about air defence and protecting our own country, but that does not prevent us from providing Ukraine with what it needs today," the official stressed.
Netherlands recalls providing Patriot system to Ukraine
Boswijk noted that the Netherlands was among the first countries to provide Ukraine with a complete Patriot air defence system, including a radar, as well as a substantial number of interceptor missiles.
The Dutch government is also exploring options for purchasing additional equipment from the United States.
According to the official, some EU countries have sufficient air defence stockpiles to increase military aid to Ukraine.
"Some countries have large stockpiles, and I understand their concerns, but I believe that supporting Ukraine and providing it with what it needs is in all our interests," Boswijk said.
Appeal to countries reluctant to provide air defence equipment
The Dutch official specifically addressed European governments that have so far refrained from transferring a substantial share of their air defence capabilities.
He stressed that additional systems and missiles would help Ukraine protect civilians from Russian attacks.
"I would strongly urge these countries: please provide something to Ukraine, because it saves lives. We in the Netherlands have done so. Please follow our example," Boswijk said.
