The Netherlands aligns with the statement on behalf of EU Member States. In addition, I would like to add the following remarks in my national capacity.

Yesterday, Russian drones violated Polish air space and therewith, NATO air space. The Netherlands reiterates that we stand side by side with our Polish allies. We are glad that Dutch F-35s were able to contribute to our collective defense and we remain ready to provide any further support.

The infringement on NATO territory last night was not an isolated incident. Whatever its intentions, the Russian Federation’s actions are reckless and dangerous. This violation once again proves that the security of Ukraine and the security of Europe are explicitly linked.

The Russian Federation continues to claim new innocent victims in Ukraine on a daily basis. Civilians and civilian infrastructure are deliberately targeted. These attacks are flagrant violations of international humanitarian law and constitute war crimes.

In this light, we want to emphasize that Ukraine needs security guarantees. The Netherlands, together with 25 other countries, has announced willingness to contribute substantially. The Netherlands will also continue to pursue coordinated military and non-military support to Ukraine's Armed Forces in order to bolster its efforts to defend itself and rebuild the country. This is a collective effort and we should all dig deeper.

The Russian Federation must demonstrate genuine political will to end its war of aggression in Ukraine and engage in constructive and meaningful negotiations. The Netherlands will continue its active contribution to all efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace and also expresses its thanks to the US in this regard. The Netherlands calls upon the Russian Federation to cease its violations of NATO territory, agree to an immediate cease-fire, to stop its unlawful attacks on Ukrainian civilians and participate in peace negotiations in good faith.

Thank you.