UK Bolsters Military Support to Ukraine with New £450m Package

In a strategic move to enhance Ukraine's defensive capabilities, the UK has unveiled a new military support package worth £450 million. UK Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating it aims to apply pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin to cease his aggressive actions in Ukraine. This funding will finance a variety of military resources, including hundreds of thousands of drones, anti-tank mines, and vehicle repairs, focusing on strengthening Ukraine's frontline capabilities.

Healey underscored that "2025 is the critical year for Ukraine," urging for robust support to empower its defenders. Of the total package, £350 million will come directly from the UK, supplemented by additional contributions from Norway through the International Fund for Ukraine. This announcement follows a series of pledges from the UK, including a £1.6 billion missile deal made last month. Though the Liberal Democrats welcomed the support, they criticized it as "small change" compared to the lasting requirements for Ukraine’s defense against Putin's regime. The new funding coincides with a high-level meeting co-chaired by Healey and German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, which aims to unite various nations in their escalated support for Ukraine amidst a shifting global security landscape.