The Netherlands is allocating €500 million to Ukraine for drones, including funding for their domestic production.
According to the Ministry of Strategic Industries, a meeting took place at a Ukrainian defence enterprise between Herman Smetanin, Ukraine’s Minister for Strategic Industries, and Ruben Brekelmans, head of the Dutch Ministry of Defence.
“It was important to announce that we are providing €2 billion in accelerated support to Ukraine, including a €500 million drone project. These drones are changing the situation on the battlefield and literally saving lives,” Brekelmans said.
Herman Smetanin thanked the Netherlands for its steadfast position and continued support for Ukraine.
“I am grateful to the Dutch government for allocating €500 million for drones for the Ukrainian army. These funds will also support domestic production. I appreciate the minister’s understanding of how crucial drones are in our fight and how important it is to develop their production within the country,” Smetanin said.
- Earlier, it was announced that the Netherlands would accelerate the disbursement of the promised €3.5 billion in support for Ukraine, sending €2 billion this year instead of in 2026.
- In early March, Defence Minister Rustem Umerov discussed the development of the Drone Line and the strengthening of air defence with his Dutch counterpart.
- Prior to that, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof spoke with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy about investments in UAV production for Ukraine.