Netherlands pledges €700M for drones to aid Ukraine: Kyiv

​​​​​​​By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) - Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said Friday that the Netherlands is allocating €700 million for drones to support Ukraine after a meeting with Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans.

“The Netherlands is among the leaders in supporting Ukraine, and this support remains unwavering,” said Umerov, emphasizing the significance of the help, according to Ukraine's Defense Ministry.

The ministers discussed the expansion of the “Drone Line” project to scale up Ukraine’s combat experience with unmanned systems. “The Netherlands is ready to support and contribute to its expansion,” said Umerov.

Strengthening Ukraine’s air defense was also a key topic, as the country seeks to bolster its protection against Russian missile and drone attacks.

“Enhancing air defense remains one of our top priorities,” he noted, adding that specific steps were outlined during the talks.

Umerov expressed gratitude to Brekelmans and the Dutch Defense Ministry for their “clear stance, swift decisions, and real assistance.”

The Netherlands has been a consistent military supporter of Ukraine since Russia launched its “special military operation” in 2022, providing weapons, training and financial assistance.