Britain to Boost Military Aid to Ukraine and Fast-Track Support, Says Defence Secretary
London, July 7 – The UK has pledged to bolster its military support to Ukraine and expedite the delivery of previously promised aid, according to Defence Secretary John Healey. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced that officials have been directed to ensure that a support package pledged in April by the previous government is delivered in full within the next 100 days.
During a visit to Odesa, a port city in southern Ukraine, Mr. Healey unveiled the new package, which includes more artillery and 90 Brimstone missiles. He also held talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and participated in a remembrance service on Ukraine’s annual navy day.
This announcement follows a statement by Foreign Secretary David Lammy affirming that the UK’s military, economic, political, and diplomatic support for Ukraine will “remain ironclad” under the Labour Government.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, the UK has provided over £7.6 billion in military assistance to Ukraine. Mr. Healey emphasized the UK's unwavering support, stating, “As the new Defence Secretary, I will ensure that we reinvigorate Britain’s support by stepping up supplies of vital military aid. Our commitment to stand with the Ukrainian people is absolute, as is our resolve to confront Russian aggression and pursue Putin for his war crimes.”
The MoD outlined the new support package, which includes ammunition, 90 Brimstone missiles, 50 small military boats for river and coastal operations, 40 demining vehicles, 10 AS-90 artillery guns, and 61 bulldozers to aid in building defensive positions. The April commitment also included 400 vehicles, 1,600 strike and air defense missiles, 4 million rounds of ammunition, and 60 boats, including offshore raiding craft.
Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, Chief of the Defence Staff, highlighted the significant impact of the UK’s support, noting, “The recent milestone of 500,000 Russians killed or wounded is a reminder of how badly this war has gone for Russia. Over the past year, with British help, Ukraine has driven the Russian fleet from Crimea and reopened the Black Sea for exports. The battle on land is much tougher but Ukraine’s future as a sovereign nation is not in doubt.”
He added, “By continuing to support Ukraine, and by helping to ensure Russia loses, Britain and Europe will be stronger and safer over the long term.”
Mr. Healey’s visit to Ukraine within 48 hours of taking on his new role underscores the Government’s commitment to supporting Ukraine. This comes in contrast to claims made by former prime minister Rishi Sunak during the General Election campaign, where he suggested that multi-year support to Ukraine could be jeopardized under Labour.
The UK’s renewed commitment to Ukraine demonstrates its steadfast resolve to assist in the country’s defense against Russian aggression and to support its sovereignty and independence.