- विज्ञापन -
Kyiv: Britain is increasing its military assistance to Ukraine with a new aid package that features naval drones, air defense systems, and artillery, according to British Defence Secretary John Healey.
Healey announced that training for Ukrainian soldiers under Operation Interflex, a multinational military initiative led by Britain, will continue into 2025, irrespective of any developments in Ukraine’s peace negotiations or potential ceasefires. He emphasized that three years after Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion, the extent of his miscalculations has become evident, as the resilient people of Ukraine persist against all odds. Healey reaffirmed the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine, stating that Britain will remain “shoulder to shoulder” with Kyiv to prevent Putin from achieving victory.
In July, the newly elected Labour government pledged £3 billion annually in military aid to Ukraine through 2030-2031. The latest package includes £92 million for naval enhancements, such as small boats, reconnaissance drones, and uncrewed surface vessels, as detailed by the Defence Ministry.
However, Healey noted that it is premature to discuss the potential for British support in deploying an international peacekeeping force in Ukraine. He arrived in Kyiv earlier on Wednesday, where he met with Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov. Their discussions focused on strengthening Ukraine’s air defense, ensuring a steady supply of artillery ammunition, and exploring joint defense projects, including the co-production of air defense systems and the use of Storm Shadow missiles.
Additionally, £68 million will be allocated for air defense equipment, including radars, and £39 million will be spent on supplying 1,000 counter-drone electronic warfare systems to the Ukrainian military. Healey highlighted the importance of training properly equipped soldiers, noting that since mid-2022, Operation Interflex has trained 51,000 recruits.
Umerov expressed gratitude for the UK’s support, emphasizing the critical need for a stable supply of artillery ammunition for Ukraine’s defense efforts. The two officials also reviewed the outcomes of using Storm Shadow missiles, with no further details provided. In November, London authorized Kyiv to use UK-supplied long-range missiles against targets in Russia for the first time.
