The Netherlands announced the ambitious plans for a significant increase in their defensive costs. According to Reuters, the government plans to raise the annual defense budget by 10%, adding € 2.4 billion to existing expenses, which will bring the total budget to the level of € 24 billion. Such a step will allow the Netherlands to get closer to NATO requirements, which provides for at least 2% of GDP defense.
Increasing the defense budget will allow the Netherlands to buy new tanks, fighters, frigates and air defense systems. It is part of the broader NATO strategy to strengthen the defense capability of its members against the backdrop of growing geopolitical challenges in the world. In June 2022, the Alliance members confirmed their obligations to increase defense costs to 2% of GDP, and the Netherlands took a significant step in this direction.
NATO Secretary General Stoltenberg has repeatedly emphasized the importance of achieving this indicator, and is expected that in 2024, about two-thirds of the Alliance member states will fulfill these requirements. This is a significant progress compared to ten years ago when only three countries have reached this indicator.
In addition to increasing the costs of its own defense, the Netherlands continue to support Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. The Netherlands Prime Minister Dick Sokhph announced a new package of more than 200 million euros during his first visit to Ukraine. This step emphasizes the long -term dedication of the Netherlands to support Ukraine and interact with it in the international arena.
