This follows similar agreements recently signed with the leaders of Spain, Britain, Germany, and France. Negotiations on a comparable agreement with Poland are also underway.
Belgium's commitment
During his visit, Zelensky will tour a military base to discuss the delivery of F-16 fighter jets, a significant part of Belgium's support package for Ukraine. Belgium has pledged to provide 30 F-16s by 2028, with the first deliveries expected later this year. Zelensky is also scheduled to meet with F-16 pilots, instructors, and technicians to discuss the implementation of this support.
According to the Belgian Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib, Belgium will support Ukraine with EUR 1.7 billion between 2024 and 2025. This aid package includes funds for armaments, military equipment, and humanitarian aid, as well as resources for the reconstruction of Ukraine. Belgium has already contributed EUR 498.91 million to Ukraine between 2022 and 2023.
Spain's support
Spain has also made a significant commitment to Ukraine. During Zelensky's visit to Madrid this week, he and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez signed an agreement on bilateral security cooperation.
Media reported that Spain will provide the Ukrainian army with armaments worth more than EUR 1 billion, including missiles for Patriot systems and Leopard tanks. Additionally, Spain has pledged to support Ukraine's defense, peacemaking efforts, and reconstruction, as well as training another 400 Ukrainian soldiers at its training centers and strengthening judicial cooperation to investigate Russian war crimes.
Portugal’s commitment
Following his visit to Spain, Zelensky is expected to travel to Lisbon to sign a bilateral agreement on military cooperation with Portugal. He is set to meet with Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Prime Minister Luis Montenegro. Although Zelensky confirmed the visit, details of the agreement have not been disclosed.
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Source: IAR, PAP