Belgium pledges €1 billion military aid package to Ukraine, including F-16 fighter jets

Belgium has announced a significant new military aid package for Ukraine, committing €1 billion in support to bolster the country's defence amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.

The pledge, made by Belgian Defence Minister Theo Francken, includes essential weapons and the delivery of F-16 fighter jets, which had originally been scheduled for delivery by the end of 2024 but are now expected to arrive by 2026, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

Following an emergency European Union summit focused on the Ukraine crisis, Minister Francken outlined the details of the aid package. The €1 billion will be allocated to several key initiatives, including €216 million for the purchase of artillery shells under the Czech artillery initiative, and €200 million for air defence systems as part of the German-led initiative.

Belgium will also contribute a fleet of its own F-16 fighter jets, which are expected to play a vital role in strengthening Ukraine's air defence against Russian aerial threats. "Belgium will not stand aside and will provide weapons worth €1bn," Francken stated. "This support includes the delivery of artillery, air defence assets, and F-16s to help Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression."

While the current aid package is substantial, Francken suggested that Belgium could do more to support Ukraine, noting that any further assistance would need to be discussed at the government level.

The new aid package underscores Belgium’s continued commitment to Ukraine’s defence efforts, alongside other European nations supporting Kyiv in its fight for sovereignty. The pledge highlights the growing resolve of Western countries to assist Ukraine in countering Russian military aggression.

In addition to the aid announcement, Minister Francken confirmed that he, along with Prime Minister Bart de Wever and Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot, will visit Ukraine in early April. They will be accompanied by representatives from Belgium's military-industrial complex, marking a significant diplomatic and strategic mission aimed at further strengthening bilateral ties and support for Ukraine.

By Vafa Guliyeva