F-16 fighter jets

Ukraine has signed a significant security agreement with Belgium. President Volodymyr Zelensky, during his visit to Belgium, formalised the accord which includes substantial support for Ukraine over the next decade.

The announcement was made by President Zelensky on social media platform X.

Today in Brussels, Prime Minister @AlexanderDeCroo and I signed a bilateral security and long-term support agreement between Ukraine and Belgium.
The document includes at least €977 million in Belgian military aid to Ukraine this year, as well as Belgium's commitment to…
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) May 28, 2024

The agreement stipulates at least €977 million in military aid from Belgium to Ukraine this year. Additionally, Brussels has committed to ongoing support throughout the ten-year duration of the agreement.

A notable aspect of the agreement is the provision of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine.

Specifically, 30 F-16s will be delivered by 2028, with the first jets expected to arrive later this year. This marks the first time an agreement has specified the exact number of these aircraft to be supplied to Ukraine.

President Zelensky highlighted that the agreement ensures timely security assistance from Belgium, including advanced armoured vehicles, equipment for the Ukrainian Air Force and Air Defence, maritime security measures, demining efforts, and participation in an artillery munitions supply coalition.

The pact also encompasses military training for Ukrainian forces.

Furthermore, the agreement extends beyond immediate military support. It includes commitments to defence-industrial cooperation, support for Ukraine’s “peace formula”, and the strengthening of sanctions against Russia.

It also covers compensation for damages, justice for the victims of Russian aggression, the utilisation of frozen Russian assets, and the economic reconstruction of Ukraine.

The cooperation will also deepen in the realms of intelligence sharing, cybersecurity, and countering disinformation. Belgium has reiterated its support for Ukraine’s prospective membership in the EU and NATO.

This agreement signifies a robust partnership between Ukraine and Belgium, enhancing Ukraine’s defence capabilities and fortifying its path towards greater integration with European and transatlantic institutions.