Amsterdam – The Netherlands is the first NATO member to directly procure weapons for Ukraine under the new agreement with the US. The government is purchasing military equipment, including air defense systems, for around €500 million.
The mechanism was presented in Washington in July by US President Donald Trump (79) and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte (58). The principle: supporters purchase US defense systems and ammunition, which are transferred from stockpiles to Kyiv.
Netherlands takes the lead in arms purchases
Prime Minister Dick Schoof (68) stressed on X (formerly Twitter):"These weapons are urgently needed. Ukraine continues to fight daily against Russian aggression, such as large-scale drone attacks. In doing so, Ukraine is also fighting for freedom and security in Europe."
Ukraine is under heavy attack, so air defense is particularly important. The weapons package the Netherlands has now purchased also includes components for the Patriot air defense systems.
"The Netherlands is now taking the lead in supplying military equipment from American stocks," Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans also explained on X."By resolutely supporting Ukraine, we are increasing the negotiating pressure on Russia."
Germany supplies two Patriot systems
NATO confirmed on Monday evening that the deliveries would be assembled quickly and shipped regularly. Germany had also pledged support. Instead of purchasing new US systems for Ukraine, Berlin is initially providing two Patriot systems from its own Bundeswehr stocks.
► According to the German Federal Ministry of Defense, the launchers will be delivered in the next few days. Additional system components will follow in the coming months. In return, Germany will be the first country to receive newly produced Patriot systems from the USA.
Meanwhile, Trump is putting pressure on Moscow: The US president has set a deadline for Russia to halt its attacks on Ukraine by Friday. Russian troops had recently regained ground. But with new weapons and more international support, Ukraine is receiving further support.
