Four years of war in Ukraine have transformed modern warfare, with drones, digital defence systems, and improvised solutions redefining the battlefield. At a recent symposium, Dutch and Ukrainian experts reflected on frontline conditions and explored lessons that Europe can learn to better prepare for future conflicts.
One major lesson emphasized was the need for timely investment. Ukrainian Ambassador Andriy Kostin warned that although media attention in Europe has waned, Ukraine continues to defend the continent against Russian aggression. Investing in support now, he argued, could save countless lives and resources in the future. Dutch Junior Minister for Arms Procurement Derk Boswijk echoed this urgency, stressing that European countries must act swiftly to provide sufficient support.
Speakers also highlighted the importance of tougher economic sanctions on Russia. Julia Soldatiuk-Westerveld of the Clingendael Institute called for stronger measures to target Russian economic interests and better oversight of Western companies supplying technology used in Russian military production.
Experts cautioned against both underestimating and overestimating Russia. Frans Osinga, Professor of War Studies at Leiden University, noted that initial expectations of a rapid Russian advance were vastly incorrect. Current Russian losses are estimated at 325,000 soldiers, while Ukraine has lost around 140,000 soldiers and 15,000 civilians. Russia continues to occupy almost a fifth of Ukrainian territory, much the same as at the start of the invasion.
Flexibility and adaptability have proven crucial for Ukraine’s defence. Jacob Parakilas from RAND Europe highlighted how Ukrainian forces effectively operate Russian, European, and American defence technology. Rapid advancements in drone and digital defence technology require similarly adaptable strategies, with Soldatiuk-Westerveld stressing the need for drones that can be quickly reconfigured.
The humanitarian crisis in Ukraine was another focus of the symposium. Repeated Russian attacks on electricity infrastructure have left millions without heat or essential services during harsh winters. Experts urged Europe to show stronger leadership, including using frozen Russian assets to help fund reconstruction efforts.
Creativity has also been essential for Ukraine and its supporters. Godfried van Lanschot, founder of the Dutch Protect Ukraine initiative, described efforts ranging from evacuation robots and medical training to drone-repair kits and improvised street shields. Innovative tactics, including fake vehicles to deceive drones and lobbying tech companies, demonstrate how non-traditional solutions can support both defence and civilian protection.
Finally, learning from experience was emphasized as critical for Europe. Lesia Orobets from the Price of Freedom NGO highlighted the threat of Russian ballistic missiles capable of striking European cities in minutes. She urged European observers to engage directly with Ukraine’s experiences to better protect their own airspace and prepare for future conflicts. While media coverage has decreased, she stressed that the lessons of Ukraine’s resilience are increasingly urgent for Europe.
