Dutch defense minister: the war in Ukraine may drag on for years
Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans believes that the war in Ukraine will not end in the coming years due to the complex situation on the battlefield and the strength of the Russian army.
Photo: @rubenbrekelmans / x.com
Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans stated that he does not expect the military actions in Ukraine to end this year or next.
According to him, the situation on the battlefield remains complex, and Russia is showing significant military power. In an interview with LRT, the minister noted that Ukraine has the right to self-defense, including strikes on military targets within Russian territory, in accordance with international law.
Despite providing Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets, the minister does not disclose details of their use to ensure the safety of Ukrainian pilots.
Brekelmans also noted that the Netherlands is considering additional military support for Ukraine and NATO allies, including in the area of air defense.
The minister emphasizes that the war in Ukraine is a long-term confrontation, not a "42 km sprint," and that support for the Ukrainian army should be focused on the long-term perspective.
He also warned of the strength of the Russian army, stating that it can conduct military operations for an extended period.
Back in May, Kajsa Ollongren, who was then the head of the Dutch Ministry of Defense, said that Russia has an advantage, but Europe is capable of changing the balance of power by increasing its own military production.
It is worth recalling that recently, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof announced on the social network X a new aid package for Ukraine worth more than 200 million euros.
The financial support is aimed at protecting and restoring energy infrastructure, as well as humanitarian needs.
Schoof wrote that the people of Ukraine must live in conditions of freedom and security, and ending Russian aggression is in the interests of both the Netherlands and all of Europe.