In a telephone conversation with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Prime Minister Mark Rutte reiterated that the Netherlands will continue to support the war-torn country in “any way possible.” Rutte did that after “barbaric air raids” aimed at Kyiv.

The Ukrainian capital was attacked by air for the 16th time this month on Monday morning. “Fortunately, with limited effects thanks to the Patriot air defense system,” Rutte said on Twitter. “Helping Ukraine defend itself is not a choice. It has to be done.” The Netherlands is doing this, among other things, by training F-16 pilots together with other European countries.

The Prime Minister will attend a summit of the European Political Community in Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, on Thursday. Aid to neighboring Ukraine will be an important item on the agenda during the talks between the leaders of 40 European countries.

Zelenskyy said in a tweet that he appreciates the support of the Netherlands. “I am convinced that it will continue to grow!” said the president.

Reporting by ANP