New Dutch Coalition Commits to Sustained Ukraine Aid and Higher Defense Spending

THE HAGUE — After months of arduous negotiations, the Netherlands' new coalition government has laid out its foreign policy priorities, with steadfast support for Ukraine and a reinforced commitment to NATO at its core. The policy manifesto, presented on Friday, signals continuity in Amsterdam's backing of Kyiv while aligning defense spending with ambitious targets championed by Washington.

The 79-page governing agreement, titled "Getting to Work," is the product of a three-party coalition brokered by incoming Prime Minister Rob Jetten. It explicitly frames the war in Ukraine as a direct threat to European security. "We are continuing our multi-year financial and military support and will continue to argue for the use of frozen Russian assets," the document states, leaving no ambiguity about the administration's stance.

In a significant move, the coalition pledges to legally anchor a defense spending target of 3.5% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), exceeding NATO's current 2% guideline and matching the figure recently advocated by U.S. President Donald Trump. This commitment, analysts suggest, is aimed at reinforcing transatlantic ties and preparing for a more uncertain geopolitical landscape.

Rob Jetten, the 38-year-old leader of the centrist D66 party who is set to become the EU's first openly gay head of government, now faces the task of forming a cabinet. His coalition, however, lacks a parliamentary majority, foreshadowing a governing style reliant on ad-hoc support from other parties to pass legislation.

"Today we are setting a new course for our country," Jetten told reporters, outlining a vision that balances international obligations with domestic challenges. His rise to power followed a narrow electoral victory over Geert Wilders' far-right Freedom Party in October, a result that tempered the surge of populism seen elsewhere in Europe.

Analysis & Reaction

The Dutch commitment comes at a critical juncture for European security. With U.S. aid to Ukraine stalled in Congress and Russian forces making incremental gains, sustained European support is viewed as essential. Legally binding the higher defense spending also preempts potential future political shifts, locking in a policy that may prove contentious during economic downturns.

Marijke de Vries, Security Analyst at The Hague Centre for Strategic Studies: "This isn't just about meeting a percentage. It's a strategic signal to allies and adversaries alike. By codifying the 3.5% target, the Netherlands is making a long-term investment in collective defense and industrial preparedness that will outlast any single election cycle."

Thomas van Dijk, Small Business Owner in Rotterdam: "I'm glad we're standing with Ukraine, but I'm deeply concerned. Where is this extra billions for the military coming from? It will mean less for healthcare, education, and tackling the cost-of-living crisis here at home. The priorities feel disconnected from people's daily struggles."

Elena Petrova, Political Commentator: "Jetten's coalition is walking a tightrope. Promising unwavering support for Kyiv while depending on a fragile parliamentary base is a recipe for instability. This government's lifespan may be dictated by its ability to rally opposition votes for every major foreign policy decision, a precarious position in a time of war."

David Feldman, Retired Diplomat: "The sharp tone on frozen Russian assets is noteworthy. It pushes the envelope on a legally complex issue and aligns the Netherlands with the most hawkish voices in the EU. This could accelerate broader European action on the matter."