The Belgian government has approved an additional €412 million in aid to Ukraine. This was reported by Shephard Media and Belga News Agency.
The latest aid package includes multi-purpose combat vehicles, armoured ambulances and artillery ammunition.
In close cooperation with the Netherlands, Ukraine will be provided with three minehunting ships. Belgium will organise basic training for personnel at the Naval Academy, while the Netherlands will provide on-the-job training for crews.
The programme also includes the purchase of armoured ambulances, a joint initiative of the Benelux countries. They will be upgraded and then transferred to Ukraine.
In addition, the Ministry of Defence plans to jointly purchase reconnaissance drones and will provide about 300 Lynx light multirole vehicles (LMVs). The vehicle's typical functions include reconnaissance, patrolling, communications, assistance and support.
The largest part of the latest aid package is the supply of artillery ammunition worth €373.1 million. The ammunition will be sourced from the Ministry of Defence's own stockpiles, as well as through international group purchases from various companies.
"Together, these initiatives amount to an investment of €412 million, bringing Belgium's financial support to Ukraine to €575.7 million in 2024," BNA said.