European allies pledge millions to pay the US for weapons for Ukraine

European allies of Ukraine have lined up to utilize a new NATO program to pay the US for weapons that can be sent to Ukraine to fight Russia.

The Dutch Ministry of Defence announced on Monday that the Netherlands has pledged 500 million euros.

Following the Dutch announcement, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway made a joint package announcement on Tuesday to support the NATO initiative.

The three Scandinavian countries pledged a total of 500 million dollars: Sweden will contribute 275 million dollars, Denmark 90 million dollars, and Norway 146 million dollars.

“We welcome the US decision to provide Ukraine with equipment, including ammunition for the Patriot air defense system, and we support NATO coordinating this effort,” said Swedish Defence Minister Pål Jonson.

“Speed is absolutely crucial. Therefore, we will offer our contribution immediately,” stated Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen, adding that Copenhagen would also consider it if Kyiv has a “need for additional funds in the future.”

These initiatives follow the agreement signed last month at the White House between NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and US President Donald Trump, which provides for the creation of a Priority List of Ukrainian Needs, through which NATO allies will purchase military equipment from US reserves for Kyiv.

The Netherlands was the first country to implement the agreement. Rutte stated that “significant announcements from other allies” are also expected.

The Dutch package consists of air defense equipment, ammunition, and other essential materials “tailored to Ukraine’s needs.”

“Especially American air defense systems and ammunition are vital for Ukraine’s defense. Only by continuing to resolutely support Ukraine can we increase the pressure on Russia and counter Russian aggression,” said Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans.

The first two Dutch support packages are expected to be delivered this month, with new equipment shipments continuing every two to three weeks.

NATO announced that the packages will be “quickly prepared and regularly sent” through the NATO Ukraine Security Assistance and Training Command in Wiesbaden, Germany.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof and Rutte for their support for this initiative.