Key facts
- Russia's embassy in The Hague issued veiled threats against the Netherlands.
- Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten expressed support for Ukrainian drone strikes into Russia.
- The Russian embassy stated that such comments are noted and factored into military and political planning.
- Jetten also emphasized the need to strengthen Ukrainian air defenses and pursue diplomacy.
- The Netherlands has been a strong supporter of Ukraine, providing F-16s and Patriot systems.
Russia's embassy in The Hague issued thinly veiled threats against the Netherlands following comments by Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten supporting Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian territory. The embassy stated that such statements are not only noted but also factored into Russia's military and political planning.
Jetten, speaking to the Kyiv Independent on the sidelines of a NATO summit in Ankara on July 8, advocated for deeper strikes into Russia to pressure its economy and President Vladimir Putin. He also stressed the importance of bolstering Ukraine's air defenses and pursuing diplomatic solutions to end the war.
Ukraine has increasingly utilized long-range drone strikes targeting energy and industrial facilities within Russia to impede its war-fighting capabilities. The Russian embassy confirmed it is thoroughly informing Moscow of all initiatives, steps, and statements made by the Dutch leadership.
The Netherlands, a member of both NATO and the EU, has been a steadfast supporter of Ukraine since the full-scale invasion in 2022, providing significant military aid including F-16 fighter jets and Patriot air defense systems.