China
Chinese hackers are gaining an increasingly sophisticated understanding of the devices that sit at the gateways of Western networks, and Dutch intelligence services now warn that this trend could translate into a sharp rise in cyberespionage operations in the years ahead. The warning raises new questions about how vulnerable government
NATO & Defence
As drones reshape battlefields from the Black Sea to the Red Sea, the Dutch military is betting that traditional naval air defence is no longer enough. The Netherlands is now moving to equip its warships with a new generation of anti-drone systems, but the project also highlights a broader
Russia
Russia is stepping up sabotage, cyberattacks and intimidation against Europe. But according to Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, the answer is not caution or restraint. Instead, NATO allies should do exactly what the Kremlin is trying to prevent: increase military and political support for Ukraine. Exclusive reporting and analysis from
Russia
Russia currently shows no intention of attacking NATO immediately after the war in Ukraine ends. But according to the Dutch military intelligence service MIVD, Moscow could be ready for a limited conflict with the alliance in less than a year under the right conditions. How serious is the threat, and
Middle East
After nearly a quarter-century of almost uninterrupted Western military involvement in Iraq, a remarkable chapter is coming to an end. With the formal closure of the US-led Operation Inherent Resolve, Dutch troops have now left Iraq entirely. The question facing The Hague, Baghdad and NATO allies is what
NATO & Defence
More than three months after parliament was briefed behind closed doors on the troubled Dutch-Belgian frigate programme, the future of one of Europe's largest naval procurement projects appears increasingly uncertain. The Dutch government is still working towards a decision on how to proceed. In a new update
NATO & Defence
The Netherlands plays a pivotal role in moving NATO troops and equipment across Europe. But what happens if military transport needs to expand rapidly during a crisis? A new HCSS report commissioned by the Dutch government concludes that the country's rail system is not yet prepared for that
Ukraine
As EU defence ministers prepare to meet in Brussels on Monday, a familiar question is once again returning to the top of the agenda: how much more support can Europe provide to Ukraine, and how quickly? The Dutch government is urging fellow member states to accelerate billions in military funding,
Asia & Australia
As Europe looks increasingly toward the Indo-Pacific and Western allies seek to strengthen ties amid growing geopolitical tensions, the Netherlands and Australia have agreed to elevate their relationship to a formal strategic partnership. But beyond the diplomatic language, the agreement offers a detailed roadmap for cooperation on defence, critical
Europe & EU
The Netherlands has enthusiastically welcomed a new security agreement between the United States, Denmark and Greenland, describing it as a boost for NATO security and stability in the Arctic. But beyond the public congratulations, diplomats in The Hague see the bigger picture: the successful resolution of a dispute that had
Russia
Suspected Russian drones over a Dutch air force base? Hacked traffic cameras along military transport routes? Speaking in parliament, Defence Minister Dilan Yeşilgöz delivered one of her clearest warnings yet that the Netherlands is facing a growing wave of hostile activities that often remain hidden from public view. How extensive
NATO & Defence
The Netherlands is extending its MQ-9 Reaper mission from Romania for another 15 months, strengthening NATO surveillance operations along its eastern flank at a time when allies are taking on a larger share of intelligence duties. The decision may seem technical, but it reflects a broader shift inside the