Belgium pledges €1 billion (£830 million) to bolster Ukraine's defence
The Belgian government has announced a new aid package for Ukraine worth €1 billion (£830 million) for 2025. Prime Minister Bart De Wever visited Kyiv, emphasising the importance of military and political support.
What do you need to know?
- New Aid Package: Belgium has decided to provide Ukraine with €1 billion as part of aid for 2025. Prime Minister Bart De Wever announced the decision during a visit to Kyiv.
- Military and Political Support: Since the beginning of the Russian invasion, Belgium has supported Ukraine on many fronts, including defence and humanitarian efforts.
- Defence Cooperation: Belgian defence companies plan to invest in Ukraine to strengthen European defence potential.
What are Belgium's plans for Ukraine?
During his visit to Kyiv, Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever announced that his country would allocate €1 billion (£830 million) aid Ukraine in 2025. He was accompanied by Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot and Defence Minister Theo Francken, who emphasised that Belgium plans to continue its military support in the coming years.
"Our Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot is here, as well as our Defense Minister, who is proud to announce a new decision on a one billion aid package for 2025," said De Wever.
What is the significance of defence cooperation?
The Belgian Prime Minister highlighted that defence cooperation with Ukraine is crucial for all of Europe. Representatives from ten Belgian defence companies were present in Kyiv to discuss opportunities for joint production and investment.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky emphasised that three agreements have already been signed with Belgian companies. "Today in Ukraine, together with Prime Minister, we welcomed representatives of ten Belgian defense companies "We discussed joint weapons production and investment in manufacturing on Ukrainian territory—steps that will benefit all of Europe." said Zelensky.
The Belgian Prime Minister emphasised that support for Ukraine is not only defensive but also political and humanitarian. Zelensky expressed gratitude for Belgium's consistent support since the beginning of the Russian invasion. "Belgium has consistently supported us since the first days of the full-scale invasion," Zelensky wrote. He also posted a recording on X.
