Netherlands funds drone project for Ukraine; €500 million investment

The Netherlands is financing a major drone project for Ukraine, Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans and State Secretary Gijs Tuinman announced during a visit to the country. The project, aimed to help Ukraine stop Russian attacks at the front, will cost 500 million euros. The amount will come from the 2 billion euros accelerated support package the Netherlands promised Ukraine for 2025.

“These drones make a difference on the battlefield and literally save lives,” Brekelmans said. “It is of great importance that we can now promise this support. This strengthens Ukraine’s position on the front line and at the negotiating table.”

The two Dutch Cabinet members visited Dnipiro shortly after a major Russian drone attack, which killed four people and hurt approximately 20 others. When they arrived, Ukrainians were still working on extinguishing the fire. “They saw the major impact with their own eyes,” the Ministry of Defense said.

The Ukrainians indicated that they have a great need for drones, air defense, and artillery. “The priorities of the Netherlands tie in well with this,” the Ministry said. In addition to the drones, the accelerated support package includes air defense, ammunition, and maritime equipment.

The Dutch Ministers also signed an agreement with their Ukrainian counterparts to strengthen cooperation between the two countries’ industries. “A close cooperation between our industries is good for both countries. We can learn a lot from Ukraine’s combat experience and, in turn, use our capacity for this. This leads to more innovation and larger-scale production,” Tuinman said. “What is good for Ukraine is good for the Netherlands and vice versa.”