Queen Máxima Begins Training as Dutch Army Reservist

The Dutch military has gained a high-profile volunteer in its efforts to boost recruitment amid growing security concerns in Europe. Queen Máxima, the 54-year-old Argentinean-born wife of King Willem-Alexander, has started training to become a reserve member of the Dutch army. The Ministry of Defense stated that she wants to contribute to the Netherlands' security, following in the footsteps of her daughter Crown Princess Amalia, who recently completed her own military training. The queen's training includes practical and theoretical military components such as physical resilience, self-defense, marksmanship, map reading, and military law. Once completed, she will be given the rank of lieutenant-colonel and will be available for deployment when needed. The Dutch government plans to expand its military to 122,000 staff, currently standing at 80,000 personnel. Máxima's decision comes amid a broader European trend of royals enlisting in military service, with the hope of inspiring others to consider similar volunteer roles. The defense ministry released photos of her training, showing her engaging in activities like pistol shooting, rock climbing, and swimming pool exercises.