Netherlands First NATO Country Buying US Weapons For Ukraine

The Netherlands has become the first NATO member to fund a full package of US-made weapons for Ukraine, committing 500 million euros under the new Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) mechanism launched by US President Donald Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. This purchase includes US Patriot missile parts and other defense systems tailored to Ukraine’s front-line needs, aimed at countering escalating Russian drone and missile attacks. Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine to increase pressure on Russia to negotiate and highlighted the broader threat Russia's advances pose to Europe. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised the move, calling it a substantial contribution that strengthens air defenses for both Ukraine and Europe. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker indicated that the Netherlands' purchase is a vital first step, with more countries expected to participate in the coming weeks to fund American military aid for Ukraine. This new funding framework allows NATO allies to pay Washington directly for weapons from US stockpiles to speed up delivery to Ukraine amid ongoing conflict.