Deepening cooperation in defense procurement: Ukraine and the Netherlands sign a Letter of Intent

During a meeting in Kyiv, Ukraine’s Minister of Defence, Rustem Umerov, and the Netherlands' Minister of Defence, Ruben Brekelmans, signed a Letter of Intent to enhance cooperation in defense procurement.

The document aims to strengthen the Defence Forces of Ukraine and enhance support for military personnel on the front lines.

“The Netherlands is a strategic partner that consistently supports Ukraine at all levels, including political, diplomatic, and military. The Netherlands has additionally allocated €3.5 billion, of which a significant portion will be directed toward providing security assistance to Ukraine as early as 2025. I am grateful to the government and the people of the Netherlands for their resolute support,” Rustem Umerov stated.

During the bilateral meeting, the parties discussed security issues in the air and at sea. The Ukrainian side expressed gratitude for the F-16 aircraft already delivered, which are now protecting Ukraine’s skies, and provided updates on further steps to enhance the capabilities of the Ukrainian Air Force.

Particular attention was devoted to the development of defense-industrial cooperation. Notably, the Netherlands supports the ‘Drone Line’ project and is investing in production within Ukraine. The Ukrainian side expressed interest in the participation of Dutch companies in joint initiatives and readiness to invest in partnership projects in the Netherlands.

Other topics included the digitalization of the Defence Forces of Ukraine. The Netherlands remains an active participant in the IT Coalition, which plays a key role in the technological transformation of the Ukrainian military.

The Ukrainian side also briefed its partners on the current security situation, the enemy’s intentions, and the strategic defense priorities for 2025.