The Netherlands has begun preparing for a possible military confrontation between NATO and Russia, coordinating efforts between its armed forces and the national healthcare system. The move was reported by the Dutch radio station BNR, citing information from the Ministry of Defense and the country’s Hospital Association (NVZ).

According to the Defense Ministry, steps are being taken to ensure that the Netherlands can provide rapid and effective medical assistance in the event of a large-scale crisis. A ministry spokesperson explained that the healthcare system must be ready to treat not only Dutch soldiers but also wounded personnel from allied nations who might arrive in transit.

Government projections suggest that any military clash between NATO and Russia could result in a «mass influx of wounded and sick from conflict zones.» To address this risk, defense and health authorities are working alongside medical organizations to expand the country’s emergency and treatment capacities.

The Dutch Hospital Association emphasized that the nation’s clinics already have experience operating in crisis conditions and regularly participate in emergency drills. However, the NVZ noted that additional funding would be essential to bring preparedness to the required level.

According to the association, these resources could come from NATO’s standard budget framework, which allocates 1.5% of defense spending toward strengthening military resilience.