The government said the reallocation is necessary to balance the national budget while meeting obligations to support Ukraine. Officials emphasized that humanitarian assistance will remain unchanged as long-term development spending is restructured.

$212 Million Shifted To Ukraine

Stockholm will end development programs in Tanzania, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Liberia and Bolivia, redirecting approximately $212 million to Ukraine.

Authorities said the long-term aid programs will conclude by 31 August 2026. The overall aid budget will fall from $5.95 billion to $5.63 billion next year.

Embassy Closures Announced

Three embassies in Bolivia, Liberia, and Zimbabwe, all primarily focused on development programming, will be shut down. Officials stressed that diplomatic ties will not be severed, but restructured to prioritize trade and other forms of cooperation.

Rationale For The Policy Shift

Sweden’s development minister said, “the money has to come from somewhere,” noting that supporting Ukraine is a strategic obligation.

He stated that redirection of funds aligns with national priorities amid fiscal tightening.

Humanitarian Aid To Continue

Despite ending long-term development programs, Sweden reiterated that humanitarian aid will not be affected.

Officials said emergency relief mechanisms for Africa remain active, even as structural development partnerships wind down.