Netherlands pushes EU to approve new Ukraine aid package amid concerns over U.S. support

European leaders are expected to approve a new aid package for Ukraine during an emergency summit next week, Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp said Monday. The package aims to prevent Ukraine from negotiating peace with Russia "at knifepoint."

Veldkamp met with European counterparts in Brussels to discuss the multi-billion-euro package proposed by EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas. "Some details still need to be worked out, but based on today’s discussion, I’m optimistic," he said. EU leaders will determine the final amount on March 6.

Participation in the package is voluntary to avoid opposition from Hungary and Slovakia. However, according to Veldkamp, there is "strong pressure" on member states to contribute, particularly targeting countries that have given little support to Ukraine so far, such as Spain and Italy.

Countries can contribute financially or provide military equipment. The Dutch government supports the proposal as it allows contributions to be deducted from previously pledged aid to Kyiv. "This support costs the Netherlands nothing extra," sources in Brussels said.

Military aid

The plan spearheaded by Kallas would provide Ukraine with additional air defense systems, missiles, drones, ammunition, and military training. Kallas is pushing for swift approval to send a clear message to both Ukraine and the United States that Europe is taking responsibility. "European countries are holding onto each other tightly right now, including at the highest levels, and even with the British, because we are living in historic times where we must act together," Veldkamp said.

The meeting took place on the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. EU leaders are concerned that U.S. military aid could falter under a potential second term for former President Donald Trump, who has shown increasing alignment with Russia. The EU wants to demonstrate to Washington that it remains committed to Ukraine’s defense.

At the same time, the EU agreed to impose a 16th round of sanctions against the Kremlin. Kallas has already announced that discussions for a 17th package are underway.

Joint support statement from Dutch parties

Several Dutch political parties marked the invasion's anniversary by declaring solidarity with Ukraine on social media. "It is more important than ever to stand with the Ukrainian people, for both their security and our own," read a joint statement on X, signed by GroenLinks-PvdA, SGP, Partij voor de Dieren, JA21, D66, CDA, Volt, ChristenUnie, and the ruling VVD.

"For the first time in a long time, Europe must fully rely on itself for security," the statement continued. "With Trump in the White House, the Netherlands will have to do more to support Ukraine. Only a just peace can keep Putin at bay in the long run."

Several parties declined to sign. Coalition members BBB and PVV did not respond. The SP initially objected to the wording of the statement but later expressed support for the final version. NSC co-leader Pieter Omtzigt posted separately, affirming continued Dutch support for Ukraine and calling for increased European resilience. "This support is not only in Ukraine’s interest but also in the interest of other European nations, including the Netherlands," he wrote.

The BBB, reportedly unaware of the joint statement, issued its own message: "The Netherlands will continue to support Ukraine politically, militarily, financially, and morally against Russian aggression. We hope a peace agreement can be reached soon so that the Ukrainian people can finally find peace and stability."

PVV leader Geert Wilders declined to comment. The PVV has long opposed additional aid to Ukraine but softened its stance last week. Wilders, however, remains against sending Dutch troops to any potential peacekeeping mission.

Ministries raise the flag

On Monday, multiple Dutch ministries raised the Ukrainian flag in a show of support. The Ministry of General Affairs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Defense confirmed their participation, as did the Tweede Kamer. The same gesture was made last year, with many government buildings, municipalities, and provinces raising the blue and yellow flag.

"For three years, Ukrainians have fought courageously and tirelessly against brutal Russian aggression," said Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans in a statement. "They fight not only for their own freedom but also for ours. There is no reason to believe that President Vladimir Putin will stop at Ukraine’s borders."

In Tholen, Zeeland, and Maasgouw, Limburg, local governments also raised Ukrainian flags. "By hoisting the Ukrainian flag, we show that we have not forgotten the Ukrainian community," said Tholen Mayor Marleen Sijbers. "This moment symbolizes our support and solidarity with them, in the hope that the future brings peace and stability."

Maasgouw hosts approximately 265 Ukrainian refugees across multiple locations. "They live in our shelters, work, go to school, take language courses, participate in sports, and are part of our community," the municipality said in a statement.

Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof reinforced the Netherlands' commitment to Ukraine during a summit in Kyiv, where world leaders gathered to mark the invasion's third anniversary. Speaking virtually, he reiterated that peace is only possible if Ukraine and Europe are fully involved in negotiations.

"My first trip as prime minister was to Ukraine, to Zaporizhzhia. The purpose of that visit was clear: to affirm that the Netherlands supports Ukraine and will continue to do so. Today, I can only repeat that message," Schoof said.

"We need peace through strength, not the constant threat of war through weakness. Let us continue working together for the best possible outcome," he added.