Dutch government implements extensive transport restrictions for major NATO summit

The Dutch government has unveiled a comprehensive array of transport restrictions, including a significant no-fly zone and maritime prohibitions, in preparation for the unprecedented NATO summit slated for June 24-25 in The Hague.

The high-profile gathering is expected to draw dozens of foreign leaders and ministers, notably including US President Donald Trump, marking the largest summit ever hosted by the Netherlands, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Commencing on June 23, a strict flight ban will be enforced across a 16-kilometer radius surrounding the city. Dutch authorities confirmed that "no air traffic will be allowed at all, except for safety purposes and medical emergencies" within this designated area. Beyond this core no-fly zone, softer flight restrictions will extend to a 93-kilometre radius, permitting only large commercial airliners with valid permits.

The logistical impact of these aerial measures will be substantial, with the combined effect of airspace restrictions and the dedication of an entire runway for state flights reducing Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport's capacity by 10 per cent during the summit.

Maritime movements will also face significant curtailment. A restricted zone extending over 22 kilometres off the coast near The Hague will be in effect. While authorized fishermen and tour boats will have limited access during the three days preceding the summit, a complete closure to all shipping will be implemented between 3 pm on June 23 and midnight on June 25.

The summit is anticipated to host approximately 45 heads of state and government, including President Trump and numerous European leaders, alongside some 90 foreign and defence ministers. In total, around 8,500 attendees are expected, comprising 6,000 government officials, 2,000 journalists, and 500 participants in a concurrent NATO Public Forum.

Such extensive security protocols, encompassing no-fly zones and shipping bans, are customary for large-scale international gatherings of world leaders, as exemplified by the funeral of Pope Francis in Vatican City on April 26, which saw 170 state delegations. The upcoming NATO meeting holds particular significance as the first since former Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte assumed the role of the transatlantic military alliance's secretary-general, succeeding Jens Stoltenberg.

By Vafa Guliyeva