Denmark and the Netherlands are keen to engage in President Donald Trump’s initiative to have Europe procure American weapons for Ukraine. This was highlighted during a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels on Tuesday.
Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen (M) noted that Trump has positioned the USA “on the right side” by enabling the sale of American weaponry to Ukraine. “Denmark will also do its part,” he stated.
The USA offers critical systems such as the Patriot air defense system, necessary for Ukraine to intercept Russian missiles. However, Trump’s “America first” approach means he prefers European allies to finance these purchases rather than using American taxpayer money.
Løkke Rasmussen recalled a recent meeting in Denmark with President Zelenskyy and his team, where they discussed this very topic. He explained that the proposal aligns with the “Danish model,” which involves purchasing arms from the Ukrainian defense sector. “So we are ready to participate,” he affirmed, adding that other European nations need to join in as well.
He expressed pride in Denmark being the largest per capita contributor to Ukraine and reaffirmed the country’s readiness to support the initiative, despite Denmark not having the Patriot system itself. The Danish involvement will likely be monetary, either through direct support to Ukraine or payments to the USA.
“We need to finalize the details. The crucial factor is that the USA is now prepared to provide these essential weapon systems,” Løkke Rasmussen stated.
Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp also expressed willingness to explore participation in the initiative, saying they would approach Trump’s statements positively.
On Monday, Trump announced that the USA would supply weapons to NATO to assist Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, stating, “We will make the best weapons, and they will be sent to NATO.”
This agreement entails NATO purchasing weapons from the USA for distribution to Ukraine. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte mentioned that Ukraine would receive a substantial amount of military supplies as a result of this new arrangement, which includes air defense systems, missiles, and ammunition.
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