It is almost certain that more Dutch soldiers will go to NATO countries in Eastern Europe in the near future. The cabinet seems willing to grant requests from NATO, sources report to the NOS. Countries on the edge of the NATO area are under pressure after the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
For example, most likely Patriot missiles will go to Slovakia. These air defense missiles are accompanied by 150 soldiers. There is also talk of a mission together with French soldiers in Romania. About 200 Dutchmen could be stationed there. On Wednesday, a broad delegation from the cabinet will go to Paris to discuss the situation regarding Ukraine.
Since last week, 150 soldiers from the Airmobile Brigade have already been present in Romania for an exercise, near the border with Ukraine. It was originally supposed to be held in Germany, but was moved after the Russian invasion.
‘Also a threat to us’
Defense Minister Ollongren visited these ‘red berets’ in Romania today. They train with helicopter operations and do target practice.
“Romania borders Ukraine. The war is much closer to the people here than to us,” says Ollongren. “It is an attack on Ukraine, but actually also a threat to us. Of our standards and values, our freedom. Then you have to be there as NATO and it is very important that we as the Netherlands show that we are doing our bit. “
The aim of increasing NATO visibility in Eastern Europe is to deter the Russians. Ollongren: “If you see that the Russian threat continues, you want to have the entire eastern flank well fortified.”
Lithuania
Meanwhile, there are also 270 Dutch soldiers in Lithuania and Dutch F16s and JSFs are flying over Poland. That will also happen over Bulgaria, with JSF aircraft.
Insiders expect that the cabinet will soon make a decision on expanding the Dutch military presence in Eastern European NATO member states.
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