More than 10 billion euros promised at a conference for Ukraine, Belgium offers 800 million

The world pledged 9.1 billion euros for this campaign Defend Ukraine† In addition, €1 billion from the European Commission, in cooperation with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), for the displaced in Ukraine. “That’s cool,” said von der Leyen. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development will contribute one billion euros

According to von der Leyen, more money will follow. “The solidarity of nations, businesses and people around the world is giving some light in these trying times,” she said. As soon as the bombs stop falling, we will help the Ukrainian people rebuild their country. We will continue to protect Ukraine.” She also said at the beginning of the conference that Ukraine is fighting for all of us. “It is not only about Ukraine fighting for sovereignty and safety, but they are also fighting whether humanity will win or whether horrific devastation will result.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also addressed the conference. “Ukrainian courage united the entire democratic world (…) but I would also like to share our courage with everyone in the world as we defend our country against the greatest tyranny,” the president said. So the rest of the world should do everything in its power to hold the Russians accountable for their crimes against the people. Zelensky also reiterated his demand for additional sanctions on Russian banks and an embargo on Russian oil.

With the campaign, launched on February 26, the European Union and Canada, in cooperation with the NGO Global Citizen, wanted to raise funds for Ukrainian refugees. The funds are earmarked for United Nations projects and local aid organizations. The conference was preceded by a social media campaign involving musicians, actors and athletes. Elton John, Alanis Morissette, Billie Eilish, Chris Rock, Annie Lennox, and Celine Dion, among others, called for a donation.

Prime Minister Alexandre de Croo (Open VLD) said on Twitter that Belgium had provided €800 million. “Right now, there are more Belgian trucks carrying medical aid and food on their way to Ukraine,” he says in a video.

“Our hearts are broken because of what is happening. We are shocked every day by the sheer brutality. Homes and hospitals are destroyed, families are torn apart. Grandparents do not know if their grandchildren are still alive. In a video directed to von der Leyen and Trudeau, de Croo said: ” and the horrific brutality and war crimes in which young mothers are raped by Russian soldiers.” He asserts that from day one, the Belgians opened their hearts and homes to the fleeing families.

As the Belgian government, we have decided to allocate €800 million to support Ukrainian and Ukrainian citizens. It ranges from receiving refugees in Belgium to humanitarian aid in Ukraine and its neighboring countries,” says de Croo, who emphasized that Belgium will not let anyone down.