The Netherlands has made a decisive and clear stance in the Ukraine-Russia conflict by permitting the 24 F-16 fighter jets it plans to send to Kyiv to be used for strikes within Russia, without the restrictions imposed by other European donors.

This decision underscores a strong commitment to supporting Ukrainian self-defense and is consistent with international law under the U.N. Charter.

Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren emphasized at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore that “there are no Belgian-style restrictions” on this transfer.

Belgium, in contrast, has mandated that its donated F-16s not be flown in Russian airspace.

The Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo has explicitly warned Kyiv against employing the aircraft for incursions into Russian territory.

The Dutch approach, however, resonates with a firm support for Ukraine’s right to self-defense against Russian aggression.

Ollongren remarked, “We are applying the same principle that we have applied to every other delivery of capabilities, which is once we hand it over to Ukraine, it’s theirs to use.”

Her words carry weight in the international arena, setting a precedent for the kind of military support that could be provided to Ukraine without the constraints that might limit the effectiveness of such aid.

“We only ask them to comply to international law and the right to self-defense as stated in the U.N. Charter, which means they use it to target the military goals they need to target in their self-defense. ” Ollongren said.

This decision comes amidst a multi-nation effort to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities, with the Netherlands and Denmark pledging to jointly provide 61 American F-16 fighter jets.

Norway and Belgium have also expressed intentions to supply F-16s, although Belgium’s provision is scheduled for a later date, in 2025, with constraints on their operational use.

The Netherlands has signaled its readiness to begin transferring the first 18 aircraft to Ukraine as early as December, an initiative that speaks volumes about its commitment to supporting Ukraine amidst a devastating conflict.

The Dutch political landscape is witnessing a transition, with Ollongren set to step down after a new far-right government is sworn in.

Nonetheless, her optimism about the incoming government’s continued support for NATO and Ukraine is noteworthy.

“I think it’s vital that we continue to play that role,” Ollongren stated, affirming the need for consistency in foreign policy, especially regarding Ukraine’s struggle for sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Relevant articles:
– Ukraine can strike Russian targets with Dutch F-16s , POLITICO Europe, 06/03/2024
– Dutch F-16 jets bound for Ukraine can strike Russia — Defense Minister, Yahoo News Australia, 06/03/2024
– The Netherlands allows Ukraine to use its F, frontnews.eu, 06/03/2024