According to Vzglyad, the last time Rotterdam was converted for military use was in 2003 during the US-led invasion of Iraq. Given the port’s global significance for commercial logistics, even a partial shift to a military posture would result in substantial economic losses. The publication argues that such a transformation is only justified if the port's military infrastructure is expected to be used soon.
“In other words, this is not just preparation for war. It’s preparation for a war that is expected rather soon,” the article emphasizes.
NATO Drills Begin at Rotterdam
Military drills involving the reception of NATO vessels carrying military cargo have already commenced at the port. Bodouwijn Simons, head of the Rotterdam Port Authority, noted that when equipment arrives from the UK, US, or Canada, Rotterdam coordinates operations with the Port of Antwerp.
“Not every terminal is suitable for handling military cargo. If we were to process large volumes, we’d partner with Antwerp or other ports to share capacity — and vice versa,” said Simons.
The Netherlands recently announced an increase in defense spending to 5% of GDP, following the example of other NATO members. The Ministry of Defense said these efforts would enhance Rotterdam’s readiness to handle military freight at any moment. Simons added that various types of vessels would regularly dock for training, including exercises simulating amphibious landings.
Russian Reaction: 'They Are Preparing for War'
Andrey Kolesnik, a member of Russia’s State Duma Defense Committee, downplayed the threat posed by NATO logistics buildup in Rotterdam. He noted that the port has hosted conflict-oriented drills “since the détente era.”
Still, Kolesnik pointed to a broader transformation: the port's status has shifted from a purely civilian hub to a “semi-military” one, reflecting real European preparations for conflict with Russia.
He criticized the West for allegedly harming Ukraine under the guise of support:
“They pretend to protect Ukraine — in reality, they are destroying it. These Rotterdams, the Nord Stream sabotage — that’s their version of peacekeeping. The world has turned upside down,” he concluded.
Photo: Piroschka van de Wouw / Reuters
