“More than words, there are actions”: Belgium provides support of 8 million euros to the Ukrainian armed forces
Belgium will provide support of 8 million euros to the Ukrainian armed forces to provide, through NATO, first aid equipment, winter clothing, night vision goggles and even pharmaceutical products, announces this Thursday the federal government in a press release.
This is a voluntary contribution to a NATO trust fund – “Comprehensive Assistance Package (CAP) Trust Fund” – which provides non-lethal assistance to Ukraine.
Belgian companies could participate in public tenders. “Winter is shaping up to be a potentially crucial phase of the conflict”commented the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hadja Lahbib. “It is therefore essential that the Ukrainian Armed Forces be equipped with the necessary equipment to continue to face Russian aggression.”
Once again, Belgium is at the rendezvous
“I confirmed this week to (Ukrainian) President Volodymyr Zelensky that Ukraine can continue to count on Belgium”added Prime Minister Alexander De Croo. “More than words, there are actions. Once again, Belgium is there by responding to concrete needs and providing in recent weeks essential equipment for Ukraine.”
The Belgian contribution follows the decision taken by the heads of state and government of the allies at the NATO summit held at the end of June in Madrid. After an appeal from various countries including Belgium, it was decided to extend non-lethal aid to the Ukrainian armed forces via the CAP Trust Fund, in order to enable Ukraine to resist Russian aggression and to prepare reconstruction after the war.
Initially created in 2016, after the annexation of Crimea by Russia, this fund has made it possible to consolidate and strengthen the various NATO initiatives in support of Ukraine, a country which is a candidate for membership. After the Russian invasion at the beginning of the year, the CAP was revised and adapted to the new circumstances.