site.btaBelgian PM Discusses Talks Held with Ukrainian President ahead of Decision on Further Funding for Kyiv

Belgium's Prime Minister Bart De Wever spoke in an interview with local media about his conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy ahead of the European Council’s decision at its December 18–19 meeting on further funding for Kyiv. De Wever withstood pressure to support a decision to use Russian assets held at the Belgian depository Euroclear for that purpose.

He specified that he had assured the Ukrainian President of his good intentions. "I told him to rest assured that he would receive EUR 90 billion. Being portrayed as an ally of [Russian President Vladimir] Putin was very offensive," De Wever said, summarizing the situation. He faced heavy criticism for refusing to secure unanimity for a decision on using Russian assets.

The interview comes after De Wever was named Belgian of the Year following an earlier public opinion survey that showed broad support in his country for his stance on funding for Ukraine amid threats from Moscow. The Belgian Prime Minister added that the situation required strong leadership, which he said he had demonstrated.

De Wever also said Belgium needs structural budget reforms over the next decade or so. He has set the goal that in the three years remaining until the end of the current government’s term, measures will be taken to improve security, curb immigration, and ensure sufficient energy supplies. His government’s policy of cutting budget spending this year triggered seven nationwide strikes that set a historic record. Belgian trade unions have said they are prepared to continue protests next year in defence of social benefits.