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Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelenskiy called for stronger air defenses and the swift delivery of additional F-16 fighter jets during meetings in Brussels with Belgian King Philippe and Prime Minister Bart De Wever.

Zelenskiy briefed De Wever on Ukraine's defense needs and discussed Russian strikes on housing, energy facilities and other critical infrastructure, as well as options for supplying more ammunition for the F-16 fleet.

Damage from Russian strikes reviewed

According to Belgian media reports, Zelenskiy met King Philippe and Prime Minister De Wever during his visit to Brussels.

The meeting between Zelenskiy and De Wever covered the consequences of Russian attacks on residential buildings, energy facilities and other critical infrastructure in Ukraine. Zelenskiy said repair crews in some settlements had been unable to start work because of the threat of a second strike on the same location, and briefed the prime minister on the country's defense needs.

F-16s and ammunition on the agenda

Zelenskiy stressed that the F-16 fighters make an important contribution to repelling attacks by Russian jet-powered Shahed-type drones. "We are working with Belgium to receive additional combat aircraft as soon as possible," Zelenskiy said, adding that every decision on defense support saves lives.

The two leaders also discussed ways to supply additional ammunition for the F-16s.

Call to keep Russian assets frozen

After his meeting with King Philippe, Zelenskiy thanked the king, the Belgian government and the people of Belgium for their support in a post on social media. He said cities and towns across Ukraine remain under constant Russian missile and drone attacks, and that strengthening air defenses is his government's top priority.

Zelenskiy called for frozen Russian assets in the European Union to remain blocked. "As long as the war continues, Russia must get nothing that would allow it to invest in new massacres and in destabilizing Europe," Zelenskiy said.

Dispute over frozen assets

Kyiv wants frozen Russian assets, most of which are held in Belgium, to be used to support Ukraine. Belgium has raised concerns over the legal and financial risks it could face.

Next steps in Brussels

Zelenskiy is expected to attend a Ukraine session on the second day of the EU summit on October 16, and to hold bilateral talks with the prime ministers of Finland, Sweden and Hungary, as well as with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa.

Key takeaways

• Zelenskiy pressed Belgium for stronger air defenses and faster delivery of additional F-16 jets
• F-16 fighters help counter Russian jet-powered Shahed-type drone attacks, Zelenskiy said
• Kyiv wants frozen Russian assets used for Ukraine; Belgium cites legal and financial risks
• Zelenskiy is due at an EU summit Ukraine session on October 16 with several bilateral talks planned