Europe & EU

New Dutch Security Strategy 2026–2030: less reliance on Washington, more Europe – and a French nuclear option

Dutch Foreign Minister Berendsen (left) and Deputy Minister Prévot (right) of Belgium. / photo: EU

The Dutch government wants to become significantly less dependent on the United States for its security and defence in the coming years. That is the central message of the new International Security Strategy 2026–2030, presented to parliament this week.

US suspects ASML tech reached China — The Netherlands issues cautious response

The Dutch government is responding with extreme caution to new concerns from the United States that one of ASML’s most advanced chipmaking machines may have ended up in China, despite strict export restrictions.

How Japanese Emperor Naruhito’s visit signals stronger Japan–Netherlands ties as 'middle powers' between the US and China

The state visit of Japanese Emperor Naruhito to the Netherlands highlights how relations between The Hague and Tokyo are evolving from a historically burdened relationship into an increasingly close strategic partnership. Whereas previous visits were still heavily shaped by the legacy of the Second World War, the focus has now

How European pressure led to lifting visa sanctions on Ethiopia after migration breakthrough

The European Union has decided to lift restrictive visa measures imposed on Ethiopia, following what officials describe as a “significant and sustained” improvement in cooperation on the return of irregular migrants. The decision, backed by the Netherlands, marks a reversal of EU migration pressure tools under Article 25a of the

Is Europe becoming less secure as the US pulls back? Yeşilgöz plays down NATO risks

The United States’ decision to scale back military capabilities in Europe is once again fuelling debate over the continent’s security. However, outgoing Dutch Defence Minister Dilan Yeşilgöz sees no immediate reason for alarm.