Launched on 14 July by U.S. President Donald Trump and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, the initiative enables allies to fund packages released from U.S. inventories. Each package, valued at approximately $500 million, includes air defence systems, ammunition, and other vital supplies tailored to Ukraine’s needs.
Minister of Defence Brekelmans stated: “The daily Russian attacks are pure terror, aimed at breaking Ukraine. We do not want this to happen as the Netherlands, which is why we are contributing to these American support packages.”
He emphasised the importance of the American systems: “Especially American air defence systems and ammunition are crucial for Ukraine to defend itself. Only by continuing to support Ukraine resolutely can we increase pressure on Russia and counter Russian aggression.”
According to Brekelmans, the stakes are broader than Ukraine alone: “That is essential, because the more Russia gains the upper hand in Ukraine, the greater the threat it can pose to the rest of Europe. Thus, the security of Ukraine and the security of the Netherlands and NATO allies are directly linked.”
The Ministry of Defence confirmed that this initiative is in addition to ongoing aid efforts, not a replacement. The first two PURL packages are expected to be delivered to Ukraine within this month, with further deliveries planned every two to three weeks.
Speed of delivery is seen as key to strengthening Ukraine’s future position at the negotiating table. By financing the first package under the PURL mechanism, the Netherlands is fulfilling its recent promise made at the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG).
Source: Ministry of Defence of the Netherlands.
