Belgium announces major aid package for Ukraine: Details
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, and Bart De Wever, Prime Minister of Belgium (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Belgium has announced a defense assistance package for Ukraine worth 1 billion euros (1.094 billion dollars). The issue of supplying F-16 fighter jets was also discussed, according to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a press conference with Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever.
During the press conference, Zelenskyy thanked the head of the Belgian government for the defense package and emphasized the country's significant assistance.
According to the president, during today's meeting, the parties discussed joint production and investments in manufacturing in Ukraine, which, in turn, will contribute to Europe's security. He added that Ukrainian and Belgian manufacturers already have three agreements, with the relevant documents being signed.
"We are also grateful for Belgium's participation in the program to strengthen our military aviation. We are working on F-16 deliveries from Belgium. Overall, Belgium has consistently supported us since the first days of the full-scale invasion," he added.
De Wever noted that each year, his country will allocate 1 billion euros to Ukraine for defense-related matters.
Commenting on the contracts signed between manufacturers, the Belgian Prime Minister stated that Brussels is interested in launching production on Ukrainian territory and, in general, plans to help Ukraine build greater capacity for self-defense and to prepare Europe for possible aggressive actions by the Russian Federation.
"We need to cooperate so that the private sector sees promising investment opportunities for building greater capacity for our defense industry. So, 1 billion euros in assistance, as well as cooperation with defense industry players who are ready to invest in your country," the Prime Minister added.
Belgium’s support for Ukraine
Belgium has actively supported Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. The country provides military assistance, including weapons, ammunition, armored vehicles, and training for Ukrainian troops. In addition to military aid, Belgium also offers humanitarian and financial support. It backs the European Union’s sanctions policy against Russia and takes part in a number of related initiatives.
Today, on April 8, Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever, Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot, and Defense Minister Theo Francken arrived in Kyiv for an official visit.
