The Dutch Foreign Ministry named the main enabler of Russia in the war against Ukraine.

Trade between China and Russia affects Europe's security - Dutch Foreign Minister

The Dutch Foreign Minister Kaspar Veldkamp stated that trade between China and Russia negatively impacts security in Europe. According to the minister, China plays a crucial role in supporting Russia in the conflict with Ukraine, and this harms Europe.

Veldkamp: 'Chinese firms sell goods that are used as components of Russian weapons, including drones.'

The minister emphasized that he discussed this issue with the Chinese Foreign Minister and urged all Europeans to understand its importance. Veldkamp also stressed that Europe's security directly depends on China.

The Dutch government, along with the United States, is gradually introducing export restrictions that prevent Chinese chip manufacturers from obtaining advanced technologies from ASML.

ASML is a leading manufacturer of lithography tools used to create chips for computers.

Despite the restrictions, China remains the largest market for ASML and other American and Japanese equipment manufacturers. Chinese companies are ramping up the production of older chips that are not subject to restrictions but may be used for military purposes.

Sales of ASML tools to Chinese companies reached a record 2.79 billion euros in the third quarter, although the company anticipates a decline in 2025.