Sweden has identified Ukraine as a key focus of its foreign policy and development, as emphasized by Minister for International Development and Trade Benjamin Dousa. To enhance support for Ukraine, the Swedish government has decided to gradually cease aid to five countries and redirect the released resources to meet Ukrainian needs.
This is reported by Finway
Redistribution of Financial Aid and Focus on Ukraine
The Swedish government has announced that in the coming years it will gradually conclude aid programs in Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Mozambique, Liberia, and Bolivia. Instead, at least 10 billion Swedish kronor (approximately 1.06 billion dollars) will be allocated to support Ukraine by 2026. As Benjamin Dousa noted, these funds will allow for financing, among other things, projects for the restoration of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
“Ukraine is Sweden’s most important priority in foreign policy and development policy, and therefore the government will increase aid to Ukraine to at least 10 billion kronor (1.06 billion dollars) by 2026.”
Changes in Sweden’s Budget and Humanitarian Policy
Since the formation of the current government in 2022, Sweden has already reduced aid to more than ten countries, including Burkina Faso and Mali. Over the past three years, the state budget for development and humanitarian aid has amounted to 56 billion kronor (almost 6 billion dollars) annually. However, from 2026 to 2028, this amount will be reduced to 53 billion kronor (approximately 5.6 billion dollars) per year. Part of the funds is planned to be used to cover costs related to immigration and the repatriation of migrants, while the remainder will be allocated to strategic priorities, with support for Ukraine remaining the main focus.