Prime Minister Rutte is in Kiev for a visit. At a press conference with President Zelensky, Rutte said that Ukraine also fights for the freedom, security and values ​​of other countries.
“That is why the Netherlands continues to support Ukraine. Whatever it takes, however long it takes: you must win this,” the prime minister told Zelensky.
Earlier in the day, Rutte visited the Wall of Remembrance in the Ukrainian capital, where a wreath was laid. The prime minister was last in Kiev in July last year. Minister Schreinemacher for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation is also present.
tanks
Rutte and Schreinemacher also visited Prime Minister Sjmyhal later in the day. They also went to a damaged energy facility and spoke to local Ukrainians.
In a week it will be one year since Russia invaded neighboring Ukraine. Since then, the Netherlands has helped the country financially and militarily.
Earlier this month, the Netherlands, together with Germany and Denmark, announced that it would deliver about a hundred Leopard 1 tanks to Ukraine. This type of tank dates from the 1960s, the units supplied are of the last version that came on the market in 1987. Some of the tanks still need to be refurbished.
“As soon as the first batch is combat-ready, it will be delivered to Ukraine. We want to do that as soon as possible,” Rutte said. He also reiterated that the Netherlands is willing to set up a Ukraine tribunal, but added that more support is needed for this.
No taboo on arms deliveries
Zelensky said in the joint press conference that there should be “no taboo” on arms supplies to Ukraine. “Because they support and protect our sovereignty,” he said.
Images of the wreath-laying at the Wall of Remembrance, where portraits of Ukrainians who died in the war with Russia are depicted:
- Prime Minister Rutte visits Kiev: ‘Important to see for yourself’
