Opposition parties in the Netherlands, including GroenLinks-PvdA and Volt, have accused the minority government of reducing financial support to Ukraine. Last year, the country allocated over €6 billion, while this year it dropped to €3.4 billion, nearly halving the assistance.
Opposition MPs are insisting on explanations for the delay of over €2 billion in additional aid approved by parliament at the end of last year. The minority government (D66, VVD, CDA) emphasizes that support for Ukraine remains a priority and urges continued attention despite the crisis in the Middle East.
European risks: Kremlin’s quick revenue and blocked aid package
Some MPs expressed concern that the war in the Middle East is rapidly boosting Russia’s revenues, calling on the EU to consider tougher sanctions. At the same time, concerns emerged that Hungary's veto could block the €90 billion European aid package.
Prime Minister Rob Jetten said the situation is unprecedented but hopes that Hungary’s opposition will be resolved next month. He explained that last year’s larger sum was due to urgent needs after the pause in US support and the postponement of some funds to the following years.
The current government opted for long-term structural support, planning annual aid of €3.4 billion, keeping the Netherlands among Ukraine’s largest donors.
The right wing opposes Ukraine's aid
Additional controversy came from the right-wing Forum voor Democratie (FvD) party, known for pro-Russian rhetoric. MP Ralph Dekker repeatedly claimed that the war in Ukraine is “not our war,” criticizing those who point to European security threats. VVD MP Ruben Brekelmans called many of Dekker’s statements false and Russian propaganda, though Dekker denied these accusations.
Earlier, Dutch humanitarian organizations warned of an increasing number of attacks and suspicious incidents that may be tied to Russian sabotage efforts. According to LifeLine Ukraine, Ukrainian intelligence last year prevented a planned attack on the organization’s office.
