Netherlands pledges to support Ukraine in deterring Russian aggression

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba had a telephone conversation with newly appointed Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands Wopke Hoekstra as part of consolidating international support for Ukraine and deterring Russian aggression.

“The chief Ukrainian and Dutch diplomats coordinated their positions against the background of ongoing diplomatic contacts with Russia in Europe. The ministers pointed out the unacceptability of Russia's demands to influence the further nature of Ukraine's relations with NATO and the EU,” the Ministry’s press service informs.

Kuleba informed his Dutch counterpart about the current security situation near Ukrainian borders and in the area of ​​the Russian-Ukrainian armed conflict.

Hoekstra reaffirmed his unconditional support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and his commitment to the principle of "no decisions on Ukraine without Ukraine."

The foreign ministers separately discussed the implementation of a comprehensive package to deter Russia from a new wave of aggression in Europe, which covers political, economic and security areas. In this context, Kuleba underscored the priority of international efforts to shore up Ukraine's defense sector.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands praised the efforts of the Ukrainian leadership to implement reforms. The foreign ministers agreed to continue to work closely together to bring to justice those responsible for the downing of MH17.

ol