Belgium has pledged €1 billion (approximately $1.094 billion) in defense assistance to Ukraine, with a focus on strengthening military cooperation and providing critical support amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.
The announcement was made during a joint press conference between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Belgian Prime Minister Bart de Wever, who is currently visiting Kyiv.
In addition to the financial assistance, the two leaders discussed key developments in defense cooperation, including the signing of three agreements between Ukrainian and Belgian defense companies.
These agreements focus on joint production and investment in Ukraine, which, according to President Zelenskyy, will significantly contribute to the security of Europe as a whole.
“Today, representatives of ten Belgian defense companies are in Ukraine alongside the Prime Minister. We discussed joint production and investment in Ukraine, which will benefit the entire European security framework. Three agreements were signed today with our Belgian partners,” Zelenskyy said.
Belgium’s support for Ukraine also extends to military aviation, with Prime Minister de Wever confirming that his country plans to provide Ukraine with two F-16 fighter jets for spare parts this year, followed by two more next year. However, the timing of these deliveries depends on Belgium receiving newer F-35 fighter jets.
Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Belgium’s continued support, saying, “Belgium has been a steadfast supporter of Ukraine since the first days of the full-scale invasion. We are also grateful for Belgium’s participation in the program to strengthen our military aviation, including the delivery of F-16s.”
Furthermore, de Wever emphasized Belgium’s commitment to aiding Ukraine’s defense industry, stating that his country will allocate €1 billion annually for defense-related assistance. “We need to cooperate so that the private sector sees promising investment opportunities for building greater defense capacity in Ukraine,” he added.
Belgium’s support has not been limited to defense; the country has also provided substantial humanitarian and financial assistance to Ukraine. The Belgian government has played a key role in backing EU sanctions against Russia and has been involved in various initiatives to support Ukraine’s resilience in the face of Russia’s aggression.
In line with their strengthened defense cooperation, the two leaders also discussed the launch of production on Ukrainian soil. De Wever noted that Brussels is interested in helping Ukraine build greater self-defense capacity while preparing Europe for any potential aggressive actions by the Russian Federation.
In conclusion, Zelenskyy emphasized that the defense agreements and the €1 billion aid package demonstrate Belgium’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s security and the broader European defense architecture.
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, marking a new chapter in the growing partnership between the two nations.
