Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with the new Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen and Defence Minister Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius shortly after their appointment, emphasizing the Netherlands' commitment to supporting Ukraine. In his evening address on February 28, Zelenskyy highlighted the importance of the ministers' prompt visit to Kyiv, indicative of ongoing diplomatic relations amid the geopolitical tensions with Russia.

During the meeting, Zelenskyy briefed the ministers on the current security situation in Ukraine, sharing insights from Ukrainian intelligence regarding expectations of Russian actions in the near future. This exchange aimed to strengthen collaboration and tactical planning between the two countries, especially in light of ongoing conflict in the region and necessitated by Ukraine’s defense requirements.

Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the Netherlands' contributions to Ukrainian defense efforts, underlining that air defense systems are currently a crucial need for Ukraine. The president's discussions with the Dutch ministers reflect a broader trend of international solidarity with Ukraine as it seeks to navigate the challenges posed by the war and the need for ongoing military and humanitarian support from allied nations.