JA21 leader Joost Eerdmans has called on the Dutch minority cabinet to decide whether to collaborate with his right-wing party or the left-wing Pro alliance for the upcoming budget.
The ultimatum was issued during his party's conference in Ede on Saturday, June 27, 2026.
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The minority coalition of D66, VVD, and CDA lacks a majority in the House of Representatives and must secure opposition support before the summer recess.
Eerdmans criticized the government's current strategy of shifting between different political factions to pass legislation ahead of Prinsjesdag.
“Het kabinet kiest nu voor geitenpaadjes op het ritme van de Snollebollekes, van links naar rechts,” said Eerdmans.
He emphasized that the cabinet must make a definitive ideological choice for its financial plans.
“Maar ze zullen toch een keer moeten kiezen: gaan ze over links met Pro, of over rechts met ons?”
said Eerdmans.
Pro leader Jesse Klaver previously stated his unwillingness to cooperate with JA21, creating a sharp division within the coalition as D66 prefers Pro, while the VVD leans toward JA21.
“We zijn in de positie dat we kunnen zeggen: graag of niet,” said Eerdmans.
The right-wing leader warned that bypassing his party would result in a high fiscal cost for the government.
“En zo niet, moeten ze een hoge prijs aan Pro betalen, die miljarden gaat kosten,” said Eerdmans.
Prime Minister Jetten and Finance Minister Heinen are currently holding talks with various party leaders to secure a financial agreement.
