The Netherlands stops contributing to EUTM Somalia

The Netherlands stopped supplying personnel for the European Union Training Mission Somalia (EUTM Somalia) as of March 28, the Dutch Ministry of Defense said. 

The Dutch contribution to the mission involved a maximum of fifteen soldiers.

As informed, the country opted for this decision due to personnel shortages and “a limited military effectiveness of the mission.”

On the other hand, the Ministry of Defense said that the Netherlands will continue contributing to the European Union Capacity Building Mission in Somalia (EUCAP Somalia). Specifically, the government decided to extend the Dutch contribution to the mission until December 31, 2018.

The ministry added that a maximum of ten people will be available for this mission.

EUCAP Somalia contributes to the establishment and capacity building of maritime civilian law enforcement capability in Somalia, including Somaliland.