Netherlands to buy US arms for Ukraine under new NATO scheme
The scheme is for NATO allies to fund US defense systems and munitions that would then be shipped to Ukraine.
Other NATO allies had pledged to join the initiative, but the Netherlands is the first to announce transferring funds.
The announcement comes as Russia continues to attack Ukraine. At least three people were reportedly killed in strikes in Ukraine's east on Tuesday.
What is the Netherlands contributing?
The Netherlands said it was buying US arms for €500 million ($577 million). The package includes US Patriot missile parts and other systems to support Ukraine on the frontlines.
Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans said the Netherlands "is now taking the lead" in supplying military equipment to Ukraine under the new scheme.
"By supporting Ukraine with determination, we are increasing the pressure on Russia to negotiate," Brekelmans said on X.
Brekelmans warned that Russia's advance into Ukrainian territory could pose a broader threat to Europe. "The more Russia dominates Ukraine, the greater the danger to the Netherlands and our NATO allies," he said.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof for the contribution. "This will definitely help protect the lives of our people!" Zelenskyy said.
US President Donald Trump and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte announced the so-called Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) scheme last month.
Trump had threatened to cut military support for Ukraine, amid pressure within his Republican Party. He later agreed to continue supplying Ukraine with arms, under the condition that other NATO allies bear the costs.
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