Netherlands joins Ukraine's IT coalition with first contribution
Photo: The Netherlands joined the IT coalition of Ukraine (Getty Images)
The Netherlands has joined the IT coalition established by partners to support Ukraine. The country has made its first contribution, according to the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.
It is noted that the Netherlands joined the IT coalition at the latest meeting of the Contact Group on Ukraine's defense in the Ramstein format. The new coalition member has already made a contribution of 10 million euros.
Additionally, at Ramstein, Denmark allocated 91 million kroner (over 12 million euros) for cyber defense in Ukraine. These funds will be directed towards cybersecurity projects for the Armed Forces and the Ministry of Defense.
It is worth mentioning that the IT coalition is a special alliance of states within the framework of the Contact Group on Ukraine's defense, led by Estonia and Luxembourg. Contributions to the IT coalition have previously been made by Estonia (500,000 euros) and Luxembourg (10 million euros). Lithuania and Latvia have also provided material assistance in the form of licenses and equipment.
In total, 11 countries have joined the IT coalition: Ukraine, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, and Japan.
Assistance for Ukraine from the Netherlands
Since the onset of Russia's large-scale invasion, the Netherlands has been providing Ukraine with not only defensive but also financial support. At the end of November, the Dutch Foreign Minister announced plans to provide additional assistance of 2.5 billion euros to support Ukraine in 2024.
Additionally, the Netherlands has sent tanks and other military equipment to Ukraine and, together with Denmark, leads the aviation coalition.
On December 22, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte revealed that the government had decided to prepare the first 18 F-16 fighter jets for transfer to Ukraine.
