Netherlands and Ukraine Expand Defense and Drone Cooperation
ISTANBUL: The Netherlands and Ukraine agreed on Sunday to deepen cooperation in defense and drone production following high-level talks in Kyiv.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten during the premier’s official visit to the Ukrainian capital. After the meeting, both sides released a joint statement through Ukraine’s Presidential Office.
Focus on Defense Technology and Drone Production
The leaders emphasized the growing importance of modern technologies in warfare. Therefore, both countries agreed to expand collaboration between their defense industries.
According to the statement, the two governments plan to launch joint production projects under the Build with Ukraine initiative. The program aims to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capacity while promoting cooperation between international partners.
In addition, both sides highlighted the urgent need to improve Ukraine’s air defense systems. They stressed that Ukraine’s security remains closely linked to the security of Europe.
Support for Peace Efforts and Security Guarantees
During the discussions, the two leaders also outlined steps aimed at achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace for Ukraine.
The Netherlands reaffirmed its support for providing security guarantees for Kyiv. Furthermore, the Dutch government pledged to continue long-term assistance, including political and military support.
Ukraine also thanked the Netherlands for its leadership role in the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) program, which coordinates international defense support for the country.
Backing Ukraine’s EU and NATO Aspirations
Both sides reiterated their shared support for Ukraine’s future membership in the European Union and the NATO alliance. They also acknowledged the reforms Ukraine has implemented despite the ongoing war with Russia.
Jetten’s Early Diplomatic Visits
Prime Minister Rob Jetten arrived in Ukraine on Sunday for his second foreign visit since taking office on Feb. 23. At 38, he is the youngest prime minister in Dutch history.
Earlier, Jetten traveled to Brussels for his first official trip abroad. During that visit, he met senior European leaders, including European Council President António Costa and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte.
After the Kyiv meeting, Zelenskyy thanked the Dutch leader for visiting Ukraine so soon after forming his new government. He shared the message on the social media platform X.
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