 |
| AP Photo / Efrem Lukatsky |
The Netherlands has announced a substantial financial commitment of €2.5 billion (approximately $2.7 billion) to support Ukraine in 2024. This decision comes as the 21-month war persists into another winter, raising concerns about the sustainability of Kyiv's war effort without ongoing Western assistance.
Dutch Foreign Minister Hanke Bruins Slot announced during a visit to Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of supporting Ukraine's security. She assured the Ukrainian government of the Netherlands' backing, stating, "Be assured of our support. Your security is our security."
Bruins Slot mentioned that her country had recently opened an F-16 training centre in Romania and is collaborating with the U.S., Denmark, and other nations to facilitate the swift deployment of fighter jets for Ukraine.
During the meeting with her Ukrainian counterpart, Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraine's aspiration to join the European Union was also discussed. Bruins Slot affirmed, "Your future is with us."
Kuleba highlighted the sustained political attention and support Ukraine receives, stating that there is no indication of a decrease in support from partners concerning the delivery of weapons and ammunition. He mentioned positive developments from the recent NATO ministerial meeting and expressed confidence that support would continue and potentially increase.
On the ground, Russian artillery targeted the southern Ukrainian city of Kherson, resulting in at least two fatalities and damage to a medical facility. Attacks on Kherson have become routine since its liberation by the Ukrainian army last year, with civilian casualties reported regularly.
In a separate development, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed to have repelled a heavy Ukrainian drone attack on Crimea, destroying numerous drones. Ukraine's air force reported downing 10 out of 17 Shahed drones launched by Russia, along with the release of six S-300 missiles. The situation in the region remains volatile, with ongoing clashes and conflicting claims from both sides.
.png)
.png)
