United States & Canada
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.
Asia & Australia
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
NATO & Defense
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. The Netherlands is making Reaper drones available to NATO to replace U.S. drones.
Europe & 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.
Dutch politics
Questions have been raised in the Dutch House of Representatives about the possible involvement of Dutch shell companies in a corruption investigation surrounding a luxury resort in Albania linked to the US president’s daughter Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner.
Middle East
There is a sense of relief in The Hague following the agreement reached between the United States and Iran with the mediation of Pakistan. At the same time, uncertainty remains high about the concrete implications for regional security — and in particular for the planned international mission in the Strait of
United States & Canada
The Dutch government has openly acknowledged concerns about the far‑reaching implications of American legislation for its own critical digital infrastructure, including systems as sensitive as DigiD.
Dutch politics
Efforts by the Dutch government to counter unwanted foreign interference are running into difficulties. Key legislation has stalled, while new instruments — including a dedicated reporting hotline — have yet to become operational and are facing delays. This is outlined in a letter to parliament by Justice and Security Minister David van
Asia & Australia
The Dutch government will continue to advocate for a greater, “meaningful” participation of Taiwan in international organisations and meetings. This is outlined in answers by Foreign Minister Berendsen to parliamentary questions from GroenLinks-PvdA MPs Kati Piri and Tom van der Lee.
Middle East
A broad coalition of 23 Western and partner countries — including the Netherlands, the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany and France — has issued a joint statement sharply criticising the activities of Iranian security services and a series of recent violent incidents in Europe.
Europe & EU
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has formally suspended its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, following the conclusion of an internal investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct. The decision was announced on Monday by the court’s governing body, marking an unprecedented step against one of the ICC’s most prominent officials.
NATO & Defense
The Dutch government is moving to make Defence significantly more active, operationally flexible and innovation-driven. The cabinet approved the final draft of the Defence Readiness Act (Wet op de Defensiegereedheid, Wodg), which will now be sent to parliament, while the Ministry of Defence is also working on a new