The Belgian government will allocate a €1 billion aid package to Ukraine this year and plans to provide at least €1 billion in military support annually during the current government’s term, UkrInform reports.
On 8 April, Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever announced the aid during a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv.
De Wever noted Belgium’s strong interest in relocating Belgian defense production to Ukraine, also announcing the signing of four relevant contracts today.
“We must help Ukraine build its own defense capabilities, and we also need to rearm Europe against Russia’s new aggression. I think we should collaborate to see how our private sector can be motivated to invest in Ukraine and develop capabilities for our defense industry,” emphasized the Belgian prime minister.
At their meeting, Zelenskyy highlighted that Ukraine’s defense potential is also Europe’s potential to deter any hostile activity.
“Today in Ukraine, together with Prime Minister Bart De Wever, there are representatives from ten Belgian defense companies. We discussed joint production and investments in manufacturing in Ukraine. This is something that will work for the security of all Europe,” he said.
De Wever also mentioned that his country intends to provide Ukraine with two F-16 fighter jets for parts this year, and another two next year, although the timeline depends on Belgium acquiring newer F-35 fighter jets.
Belgium delays F-16 deliveries—Ukraine must wait for at least another year