Netherlands to deploy Patriot and soldiers to Poland to protect arms shipments to Ukraine

Three hundred Dutch soldiers will be redeployed to Poland with two Patriot systems to protect military equipment deliveries to Ukraine from attacks by the aggressor country russia, NOS reported on Wednesday, August 20.

The Netherlands, together with partners, will strengthen "multi-layered air defense" against any threats from russia, such as ballistic and cruise missile strikes, attacks from fighter jets, helicopters and drones.

"We are doing this to protect NATO's eastern flank, an important military hub for the defense of Ukraine, as well as to deter and further discourage the Russians," Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans said.

According to him, the deployment of soldiers in Poland will not mean "boots on Ukrainian soil." The defense systems will not be used to repel attacks on Ukrainian territory.

As the Ukrainian News agency earlier reported, on October 6, 2024, Brekelmans announced that the first F-16 fighters from the Netherlands had been delivered to Ukraine.

On August 5, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte welcomed the Netherlands' funding of the US arms package for Ukraine.