Ukrainian service members led the international contingent at Belgium's National Day military parade in Brussels for the first time.

For the first time, Ukrainian service members led the international contingent during the military parade in Brussels held on July 21 to mark Belgium’s National Day.

The video of the Ukrainian troops participating in the parade was released by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

The ceremonial march took place in the center of the Belgian capital, with Ukrainian soldiers leading the foreign military units that joined the celebration.

Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken described the participation of the Ukrainian contingent as a historic moment.

“This is the first time a Ukrainian unit has taken part in the July 21 parade, and we are very proud of it,” he said.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine expressed gratitude to Belgium for its continued support throughout Russia’s full-scale invasion.

Under the ten-year bilateral security agreement, Belgium is providing Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets, air defense systems, refurbished Gepard self-propelled anti-aircraft systems, Leopard tanks, armored medical evacuation vehicles, drones, ammunition, and small arms.

Belgium’s annual military assistance to Ukraine exceeds €1 billion.

The General Staff also highlighted the work of Belgian instructors and technical specialists who are training Ukrainian pilots and maintenance crews to operate F-16 aircraft. In addition, Belgian medical and rehabilitation facilities continue to provide treatment for wounded Ukrainian service members.

“Our nations are united by a shared belief that independence, democracy, and human dignity are worth defending. Thank you for standing shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine,” the General Staff stated.