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New Dutch Government Sets 3.5% GDP Defense Spending Target, Reinforces Full Support for Ukraine
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The newly formed Dutch government has pledged full support for Ukraine, as outlined in its published program, according to Radio Svoboda, citing AFP, on January 30.
Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, ruled out the possibility of negotiating with Russia over the war in Ukraine, stating that there are currently “no signs” that Moscow intends to end the war.
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“As long as the aggression continues, we will continue to support the Ukrainian people,” he declared.
According to Radio Svoboda, the 79-page program, crafted after weeks of intense negotiations between Jetten and his coalition partners, emphasizes that the Netherlands will not cease supporting Kyiv.
“The fight in Ukraine is a matter of security for all of Europe. Therefore, we will continue to provide long-term financial and military assistance and advocate for the use of frozen Russian assets,” the document states.
The new government also committed to legally enshrining a defense spending minimum of 3.5% of GDP, a level advocated by US President Donald Trump.
When asked about relations with the US following a dispute over Greenland, Jetten emphasized the need for greater European independence.
“We must engage in a much more active discussion about what Europe can do for itself,” he remarked.
In a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Jetten's predecessor, Dick Schoof, reaffirmed the Netherlands' unwavering support for Ukraine.
“Ukraine has shown in every respect that it is willing to negotiate peace. It is now up to Russia to show the same willingness. Not attacking Kyiv for a week would be a small step in the right direction, but attacks on civilian targets in other cities must also cease immediately,” he wrote on X.
Due to the Russian attacks on energy infrastructure, and the prolonged extreme cold, Ukrainians are facing unprecedented hardship. Every day, I am impressed by their fighting spirit and perseverance.
— Dick Schoof (@MinPres) January 30, 2026
I have reiterated to President @ZelenskyyUa that the Netherlands stands firmly…
As part of its support, the Netherlands has previously committed an additional $815 million in military aid for Ukraine, which will be allocated for the first quarter of 2026.
This new commitment adds to the Netherlands' previous pledge of approximately $4 billion in funding for 2026, though a significant portion of this amount has already been used in 2025.
Earlier, Dutch Foreign Minister David van Weel announced that the Netherlands would provide approximately $38 million in aid. This funding will be used to purchase vital medical supplies, equipment, and other necessary resources to support Ukrainian soldiers throughout the winter.
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