Germany and the Netherlands will continue to help Ukraine

Germany and the Netherlands will continue to provide various types of assistance to Ukraine, including military equipment, and will ensure compliance with anti-Russian sanctions.

This is stated in a joint statement following the results of German-Dutch government consultations, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

"We will continue to work together to achieve a just and lasting peace and a prosperous future for Ukraine. Therefore, we will provide ongoing humanitarian and financial assistance, as well as military equipment and sufficient training for the military to enable Ukraine to defend itself," the statement reads.

It is emphasized that Germany and the Netherlands will continue to explore potential opportunities to improve joint military support for Ukraine, in particular, to check the possibility of joint procurement of ammunition for the Armed Forces.

The two countries pledge to continue to put pressure on Russia to end the war and, where possible, to increase it through further restrictive measures.

"Countering sanctions evasion is a key priority that requires effective data sharing and analysis, cooperation with the private sector, diplomatic efforts, and includes additional sanctions," the two heads of government said.

They agreed on the need to conduct a proper, fair and independent investigation into the crimes committed in Ukraine and prosecute those responsible at the national or international level. "There must be no impunity," the statement emphasizes.

In this context, Germany and the Netherlands reaffirm their strong support for the International Criminal Court's investigation and welcome the establishment of the International Center for the Prosecution of Crimes of Aggression against Ukraine. They call for the implementation of the UN General Assembly resolution recommending the establishment of a damage register to document the damage caused by the Russian Federation's attack on Ukraine.

Both countries emphasize their determination to stop the abduction of Ukrainian children by Russian invaders. They recall that "the targeting of innocent civilians, especially children, constitutes war crimes" and are ready to take action at the international level to raise global awareness of this issue.

The commitment to rebuilding Ukraine is also reaffirmed. In addition to contributing to physical reconstruction, the two countries are ready to promote a comprehensive process in the spirit of Building Back Better, including with a view to Ukraine's future membership in the EU.

As reported, Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine and its impact on Europe was the focus of the fourth round of intergovernmental consultations held on March 27 in Rotterdam. The German ministerial delegation was headed by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

Author - Serhii Kolomiets, 28/03/2023