Netherlands promises "substantial contribution" to Patriot systems for Ukraine

The Netherlands will “substantially contribute” to the delivery of additional Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine, said Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans. The United States is willing to release more of these systems for Ukraine, provided that Europe pays.

Brekelmans discussed the Patriots and other additional military support with his Ukrainian counterparts and some 50 allies, including the U.S., on Monday afternoon. Ukraine urged this Defense Contact Group for Ukraine (UDCG) to seize the opportunity now that U.S. president Donald Trump is willing to provide more Patriots.

The Netherlands still has three Patriot systems but says it cannot spare them. The contribution to the purchase of air defense weapons for Ukraine will therefore likely be financial. “The exact details of the Dutch contribution will be worked out shortly,” the Ministry of Defense said.

The Netherlands is collaborating with NATO, which is coordinating the operation, and with the U.S., which is responsible for providing additional Patriots. It is also working with other allies that are assisting.

“We expect to be able to announce more about this soon,” said the caretaker Dutch Minister. He hopes to provide more clarity this week, if possible. Germany, which has taken the lead in quickly providing Ukraine with Patriots, said more information will come within a few days. Military officials from the participating countries will continue discussions on Wednesday at the NATO headquarters in Bergen.

The Netherlands was immediately mentioned as a participant in the additional deliveries, but the caretaker Cabinet initially struck a more cautious tone. Northern European proponents of support for Ukraine, including the Nehterlands, want Southern European countries like Spain and Greece to also contribute. They hoped to increase pressure on them. “The Cabinet has previously indicated that it is important that all of Europe contributes,” Brekelmans again stressed after the UDCG video conference.

Patriot systems easily cost 1 billion euros each. The missiles they launch to intercept projectiles cost almost 4 million euros.

The Netherlands is also increasing other aid to Ukraine’s air defense, according to the Minister. He mentioned, among other things, ammunition for F-16s, radars, and anti-drone equipment.