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Immediate Release

Readout of Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel's Phone Call with Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, Minister of Defense of the Netherlands

Pentagon Press Secretary Rear Adm. John Kirby provided the following readout:

Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel spoke via telephone with the Netherland's Minister of Defense Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert today to discuss the ongoing investigation of the MH-17 crash, and the recovery and repatriation of the victims.

Minister Hennis-Plasschaert stressed the continued challenges faced in getting the necessary access to the site, and the urgent need to provide a dignified recovery and return for the victims. The two leaders discussed the trying emotional situation for the people of the Netherlands, as well as the friends and family members of the victims. The secretary promised to continue to do all he could to support the Netherlands in these difficult days.