The Netherlands has committed €400 million ($456 million) in maritime security assistance to Ukraine, including over 100 vessels and 50 maritime drones, Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans announced before the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting in Brussels on 4 June, according ro European Pravda.

The new support package reportedly will include more than 100 ships, patrol boats, transport boats, interceptors, special operations vessels. That is, a wide range of more than 100 vessels, Brekelmans said.

European Pravda also reported that the comprehensive package extends beyond vessels to include over 50 maritime drones, weapons systems, sensors, spare parts, and training programs for Ukrainian specialists. Brekelmans characterized the aid as “a complete package to strengthen Ukraine’s maritime security.”

The Dutch defense minister linked the assistance to escalating Russian maritime threats. “This is very important because we see that Russian threats, both in the Black Sea and around Kherson, are growing,” Brekelmans stated. “It is very important for Ukraine to protect itself from this.”

The Netherlands positioned the maritime aid within broader strategic objectives of supporting Ukraine’s shipping freedom and preserving commercial sea routes, Brekelmans explained.

This announcement follows the Netherlands’ completion of F-16 fighter jet deliveries to Ukraine. The Dutch Defense Ministry confirmed in late May that it had dispatched the final batch of 24 F-16 fighters designated for Ukraine. The Netherlands and Romania are establishing a joint training center for Ukrainian F-16 technical personnel.

The maritime security package comes amid political instability in the Netherlands. Prime Minister Dick Schoof announced his resignation after the governing coalition lost its parliamentary majority. The coalition collapse was triggered by Geert Wilders’ far-right Party for Freedom’s withdrawal over disagreements on stricter anti-migration measures.