Ukraine’s defense minister discusses with Belgian counterpart strengthening of defense collaboration

Defense Minister Rustem Umierov held a telephone conversation with Belgian Defense Minister Ludivine Dedonder.

The Ministry of Defense reported this.

The interlocutors discussed the latest developments at the front and prospects for defense cooperation between the two countries.

"I am grateful to Belgium for participating in the Air Force coalition, particularly in the pilot training program. I highly appreciate the unwavering support of the Belgian partners," said Rustem Umierov.

This year, Belgium plans to provide 611 million euros in military aid and has a long-term commitment to support the modernization of the Ukrainian defense forces.

As previously reported by Rubryka, on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky met with King Philippe I of Belgium and Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo. The leaders discussed the priorities of Belgium's presidency of the EU Council, particularly the upcoming start of negotiations on Ukraine's accession to the EU.

For reference:

As reported last January, Belgium approved €90 million in aid, including missiles and small arms.

On June 16, the Council of Ministers of Belgium approved Ukraine's fifteenth military aid package.

Earlier it was reported that Belgium will create a special fund for Ukraine in the amount of 1.7 billion euros. It will be filled with taxes from Russian assets frozen in Belgium.

Ukraine also received a batch of M113 armored vehicles from three European countries, including Belgium.

In addition, in December, Belgian Defense Minister Ludivine Dedonder confirmed the country's intentions to transfer F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine in 2025.