Britain has announced a £225 million ($286 million) military aid package for Ukraine, set to be delivered in 2025. This comes just days after Ukraine urged its allies to ramp up support ahead of potential talks with Russia.
Defence Secretary’s Visit to Kyiv
On Wednesday, UK Defence Secretary John Healey visited Kyiv and held talks with Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov. During the visit, Healey confirmed that the UK would increase its military aid to Ukraine in 2025. He said that three years after Russia’s invasion, the “depths of his miscalculation are clearer than ever” as Ukraine continues to defy expectations.
He added, “But they cannot go it alone,” reinforcing that Britain’s support for Ukraine is “ironclad” and that the UK will always stand “shoulder to shoulder” to prevent Russia from winning.
Labour Government’s Ongoing Commitment
In July, the UK’s Labour government pledged to provide £3 billion a year in military aid to Ukraine until 2030-2031. This ongoing commitment highlights the UK’s strong support for Ukraine’s defense efforts.
Details of the Military Aid Package
The new £225 million package includes several key provisions:
- £92 million for Ukraine’s navy, covering small boats, reconnaissance drones, unmanned surface vessels, loitering munitions, and mine countermeasure drones.
- £68 million for air defense, including radars, decoy land equipment, and counter-drone electronic warfare systems.
- £39 million for 1,000 counter-drone electronic warfare systems, along with additional protective equipment for Ukraine’s armed forces.
- £26 million for support and spare parts for previously delivered military systems.
Expanded Training Program for Ukrainian Soldiers
In addition to the financial aid, Healey announced an expansion of Operation Interflex. This UK-led training programme, run in partnership with key allies, has already trained 51,000 Ukrainian recruits since mid-2022.
Ukraine’s Appreciation for UK’s Support
Ukrainian Defence Minister Umerov thanked the UK for its continued support. He highlighted the critical role of stable ammunition deliveries, particularly for artillery. He also mentioned discussing the results of Storm Shadow missiles, which the UK first authorized for Ukraine in November. These long-range missiles have proven vital to Ukraine’s military strategy.
With this new aid package, the UK further strengthens its commitment to Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression, ensuring the country has the resources it needs to continue its fight.