On Friday, May 12, the Belgian government decided to adopt a new package of support measures for Ukraine. This aid comes in a context where Ukraine is preparing its counter-offensive against Russia and where the Ukrainian population must also be supported. The total amount of new financial resources allocated reaches 92 million euros. These financial resources come from the tax revenue earned on Russian financial assets frozen in Belgium.
Half of the amount, 46 million euros, is devoted to new military aid. They relate to the delivery of armored vehicles, armaments and ammunition. The objective, in discussion with the Ukrainian army, is to achieve the first deliveries very quickly.
Alongside this military aid, an additional 46 million euros are also released with the aim of supporting the Ukrainian population and consolidating the Belgian diplomatic presence. The majority of this amount (24 million euros) relates to increased humanitarian aid which, in coordination with the United Nations, will be allocated in large cities and in war zones to basic needs such as education, health and food safety.
8 million euros are allocated to the reconstruction of Ukraine via funds set up by the EIB (European Investment Bank) and the World Bank. They are added to the amounts already invested. Finally, investments are planned to re-modulate and strengthen the Belgian diplomatic network in Ukraine and in the region, secure Ukrainian strategic infrastructure (including its nuclear power plants) and contribute to the support fund for war victims in view of their future actions before the International Criminal Court.