“We appreciate this visit on a day when russia carried out massive attacks on our energy and civilian infrastructure. I briefed my counterpart on the consequences of the overnight strikes,” noted the Minister of Defence of Ukraine. The meeting took place against the backdrop of ongoing Russian missile strikes.
The ministers held an in-depth discussion on the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding, signed earlier in the presence of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. “The agreement provides for the launch of joint production of deep-strike UAVs in the Netherlands, involving €110 million in investment under the ‘Build with Ukraine’ initiative,” said Denys Shmyhal.
Talks also focused on Ukraine’s key defence priorities, including increased drone production for the frontline and urban protection, improved long-range capabilities, and stronger sanctions pressure on Russia. Denys Shmyhal emphasised the Netherlands’ role in supporting Ukraine’s defence, citing assistance with the PURL initiative, F-16 fighter jets, air defence systems, and defence industry development.
“I sincerely thank the government and people of the Netherlands, and Mr Brekelmans personally, for the significant contribution to our joint victory,” concluded Denys Shmyhal.
Source: Ministry of Defence of Ukraine.
