Rutte: Helping Ukraine to defend itself is not a choice, it must be done

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte wrote this on his Twitter account, according to Ukrinform.

"Kyiv has again been targeted by barbaric air strikes, thankfully with limited effect due to the Patriot air defense systems. I just spoke with President Volodymyr Zelensky and reiterated that the Netherlands is committed to support Ukraine however it can; from strengthening air defense systems to starting F-16 pilot training as soon as possible. Helping Ukraine to defend itself is not a choice, it must be done. Assistance to Ukraine will also be a key agenda point at this Thursday's European Political Community Summit in Chisinau," he said.

Earlier reports said the Netherlands was "seriously considering" sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine but has not taken any final decision yet.