Netherlands wants to deliver Patriot system to Ukraine jointly with partners
The Netherlands wants to deliver an additional Patriot air defense system to Ukraine in the short term in cooperation with other countries, the Dutch Defense Ministry said on May 28.
The country has identified which partners could contribute parts and ammunition from their own stocks and called on them to join the initiative.
Ukraine has been calling on its partners to provide additional air defenses amid intense Russian aerial strikes. Over the weekend, a Russian attack against a supermarket in Kharkiv killed at least 18 civilians and injured dozens more.
"We are engaged in talks with partners to compile a Patriot system, including training for Ukrainian crews," Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren said.
"With our offer, and consulting with partner countries providing several key parts and munitions, we can provide Ukraine with at least one fully operational system in a short time frame."
Ukraine operates at least three Patriot systems provided by the U.S., the Netherlands, and Germany, with Berlin recently pledging to deliver a fourth one. The Netherlands did not supply a full system but rather two launchers and other supplies.
Previously, the Netherlands contributed funds to Germany's air defense initiative for Ukraine, which reportedly collected close to 1 billion euros as of May 21.
Martin Fornusek
