While several leaders travelled to Kyiv to mark the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Belgian premier Bart De Wever (Flemish nationalist) addressed the gathering via a video link from Brussels.
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Prime minister De Wever addresses leaders in Kyiv, rejects appeasement of Russia, backs deterrence
Colin Clapson
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Mr De Wever said the leaders of the western nations and Ukraine had been surprised by the events of recent weeks, including the way the United States and Russia are currently negotiating with each other: without Europe or Ukraine.
‘Belgium cannot accept that decisions on the future of Ukraine and the security and stability of the European continent are taken without the participation of Ukraine and its European allies,’ he noted. The Belgian leader said ‘we must not appease Russia but deter it’. ‘Our support for Ukraine is an essential part of that ambition.’
The prime minister also indicated that Ukraine could continue to count on continued Belgian support, including the delivery of F-16 fighter jets and assistance to further integrate Ukraine within Euro-Atlantic relations. At the same time, he called on the other leaders present to ‘do more for Ukraine as soon as possible’.