Netherlands eyed for post-war Ukraine security mission

The Netherlands has been invited to take part in discussions about a potential military force tasked with securing future peace in Ukraine, as the country is seen as a suitable participant, Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp said. The Dutch military is capable of contributing, and the Netherlands has been willing to do so in the past.

European countries are working to establish a "deterrence force" that would be stationed in Ukraine following U.S.-led peace talks with Russia. The United States has made it clear that European and possibly other allied nations should provide the troops as a security guarantee for Ukraine. The Netherlands is among the countries being considered, according to cabinet officials and foreign diplomats.

Prime Minister Dick Schoof is set to attend an emergency summit in Paris on Monday, where a select group of European leaders will discuss security guarantees for Ukraine. Schoof said Saturday that the Netherlands is open to joining the proposed force.

However, the Netherlands and other potential participants have emphasized that the U.S. must guarantee it will not abandon the troops if a crisis arises. "Europe cannot do this alone," officials have said. So far, Washington has not provided that assurance, Veldkamp acknowledged after attending the Munich Security Conference, where Dutch officials met with U.S. representatives. "That conversation is ongoing. But I have not received any negative signals," he said.

Along with the Netherlands, Germany, the United Kingdom, Poland, and Denmark are expected to participate in Monday’s talks, along with two senior EU officials, Veldkamp said. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte will also attend. France is still finalizing its guest list and has not disclosed details.

The Netherlands was invited due to its military capabilities and past willingness to contribute, Veldkamp said Sunday. The country has taken part in more foreign missions than many of its allies. However, he stressed that no final decision has been made, and Dutch participation would still require approval from the Tweede Kamer. "We are keeping our options open," he said.