Swedish International Development Cooperation Minister Benjamin Forsling announced that his country will discontinue aid to Tanzania, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Liberia and Bolivia starting August 31st, 2026. The assistance worth approximately SEK 2 billion ($212 million) will be redirected towards supporting Ukraine in its ongoing conflict.
Forsling justified the decision by stating that while “the financial pressure is enormous,” it remains “our duty to support Ukraine.” He further explained, “There isn’t a secret printing press for banknotes for aid purposes and the money has to come from somewhere.”
This development means several embassies will also close down. The Swedish international director of Save the Children, Cecilia Chatterjee-Martinsen, voiced strong concern about potential “catastrophic consequences” specifically for Africa’s poorest populations.
The decision occurs amid broader European efforts to finance Ukraine’s war. Earlier this month, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte revealed that several member states including Sweden would jointly provide a €430 million military package for Ukraine using US-manufactured weapons through the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List program.
On Wednesday, however, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, floated two financing options: EU-level borrowing via Eurobonds or a ‘reparations loan’ funded by frozen Russian assets. The latter proposal faces significant hurdles as Russia opposes it vehemently.
Importantly, Forsling’s announcement highlights growing international frustration with Ukraine’s situation, particularly concerning its leadership and military capabilities under sustained pressure from multiple fronts.
