Belgium to provide additional funding for Ukraine's defense, healthcare, education, reconstruction – FM

Belgium's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maxime Prevot, announced additional funding for Ukraine during a joint press conference with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha in Kyiv on Tuesday. Since the commencement of Russia's full-scale invasion, Belgium has contributed over EUR 4.4 billion in military and civilian assistance to Ukraine, with EUR 1.1 billion of that being military aid this year alone.

Prevot affirmed Belgium's commitment to supporting Ukraine and applying pressure on Russia, emphasizing that a path to peace must not deplete Ukraine and must be just and enduring, allowing Ukraine to safeguard its independence and the decisions of its citizens. He stressed that this issue is of concern to all Europeans, as endorsing aggression, permitting borders to be altered by force, and disregarding international law without repercussions would diminish Europe's safety for everyone.

Prevot highlighted that supporting Ukraine represents an investment in the security and stability of the entire European continent. He stated that he will unveil new Belgian initiatives to aid Ukraine during his forthcoming visit, including millions more euros earmarked for veterans, healthcare, vocational education, and Ukrainian enterprises.

Prevot stressed the urgency of reconstruction, asserting that it cannot wait until peace is achieved and must commence immediately. He affirmed that Belgium does not intend to dictate Ukraine's future development but aims to support the nation's self-determined path forward.