Netherlands’ DM: Russia’s ambitions don’t stop in Ukraine, but go much further into Europe
Minister of Defense of the Netherlands Ruben Brekelmans stressed that Russia’s imperial ambitions do not stop in Ukraine but extend further, threatening Europe.
He made the remarks in an exclusive comment to Ukrinform in The Hague.
“I think we all need to understand that we are all facing the same Russian aggression and that Russia's imperial ambitions do not stop in Ukraine, but go much further, further into Europe. Also, they do not only want to re-establish that tree of influence, but also weaken the rest of Europe. They want to divide us by using hybrid tactics. We face it every day. But for me, over the last couple of years, I've been in Ukraine so many times, I spoke to so many Ukrainians, you know, I see how much they are suffering. So, I think, you know Ukraine shouldn't thank us, but we should thank Ukraine for the fact that you are paying the ultimate price and defending your country, but also the freedom of the rest of Europe,” Brekelmans said.
He added, “Every time that I was there, I was deeply impressed by the courage of the Ukrainian military, by their innovation and how they are able to stand strong against an overwhelming military aggression of Russia. I was also deeply impressed by the courage of the Ukrainian people, because they have been suffering a lot, and especially this harsh winter. So, every time I was there, it gave me more energy to step up our support to Ukraine and to accelerate our support where we can. Last year, we gave more support and effort as an alliance of €5 billion. And I'm very proud of that. And I'm also proud that the new government will continue our steadfast support. That is also in our budget for multiple years. So, Ukraine knows that it can count on the Netherlands over the next couple of years, and Russia also sees that our support for Ukraine is unwavering.”
As previously reported by Ukrinform, the new Dutch government is set to take office on February 23.
The incoming government, led by a coalition under the liberal D66 party, plans to allocate over €3 billion in military aid to Ukraine for 2027–2029.