Zelensky to meet Belgian PM De Wever in Brussels
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky will meet Belgian prime minister Bart De Wever and Defence minister Theo Francken on Thursday as part of his visit to Brussels for an extraordinary EU defence summit.
Francken announced the meeting on X, saying: “Our PM and I will be meeting president Zelensky today in Brussels. We will keep on supporting the brave Ukrainian people as long as it takes.” The meeting is scheduled for 11.00.
Foreign minister Maxime Prévot welcomed the visit with a message on X: ”Welcome president Zelensky to a country that always stands by your side. The side of respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. Slava Ukraini!”
Zelensky’s visit comes at a crucial moment as EU leaders gather to discuss strengthening European defence and increasing support for Ukraine. With the United States shifting its stance on Ukraine, including suspending military aid and initiating direct talks with Russia, European nations are under pressure to take greater responsibility for their own security.
During his visit to Belgium, Zelensky is expected to meet European Council president Antonio Costa and other EU leaders. He will also receive an audience with King Philippe.
The extra summit is seen as one of the most significant in recent years, with EU leaders debating increased defence spending and mechanisms to provide further military aid to Ukraine. However, divisions remain - Hungary has signalled it will not support the summit’s conclusions - particularly over how to finance additional support and whether to provide security guarantees for Ukraine in the long term.
Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky during an extraordinary EU summit in December © BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK
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