Minister of Defence of the Netherlands Ruben Brekelmans: 112.ua
Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans said that Ukraine has the right to use F-16 fighter jets donated by the Netherlands for defence operations in Russia. He stressed that this is in line with international law and is permitted in self-defence. Brekelmans said this before a meeting of NATO defence ministers in Brussels on 17 October, Ukrinform reports.
The minister stressed that the F-16s handed over to Ukraine are already in its airspace. “We have always maintained the position that Ukraine must act within the framework of international law, which does not restrict military operations beyond the territory or at a certain distance from borders. Therefore, we allow these fighters to be used to intercept missiles or strike military targets, including objects on Russian territory or in Russian airspace,” he said.
Supporting Ukraine is a priority for the Netherlands
Brekelmans also emphasised that assistance to Ukraine remains one of the main tasks for his country. “Supporting Ukraine is a priority. I have recently visited Kharkiv and Kyiv, where the situation both at the frontline and in major cities remains very tense. We must step up our efforts to help Ukraine,” the minister said.
In addition, he stressed the need to strengthen NATO’s defences against the backdrop of the growing threat from Russia, which, according to him, is not only a short-term threat but also a long-term one.
The Netherlands continues military assistance to Ukraine
The Netherlands has already earmarked €10.4 billion for military assistance to Ukraine, of which more than €6 billion has not yet been spent. This demonstrates the long-term support and readiness of the country to continue providing the necessary resources to protect Ukrainian territory.
