UK Defence Secretary announces new military aid package for Ukraine

The UK’s new Defence Secretary has pledged to strengthen UK support for Ukraine during a visit to Odessa, less than 48 hours after his appointment.

As reported by the UK government on its official website.

Following a meeting with President Zelensky and discussions with his counterpart, Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, Defence Secretary John Healey announced that the UK would provide a further package of support to the country.

The additional support would include more artillery guns, a quarter of a million rounds of ammunition and nearly 100 Brimstone precision missiles.

The defense secretary also pledged to accelerate military aid promised to Ukraine in April, so that it arrives within the next 100 days.

“During the visit, which coincided with Ukraine’s celebrations of their annual Navy Day, the Defence Secretary confirmed that Britain’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine will be reinvigorated by the new Westminster government.” The statement reads as follows.

In the aftermath of the UK election, Healey said: “There may have been a change of government, but the UK is united for Ukraine.”

“As the new Defence Secretary, I will ensure that we reinvigorate Britain’s support by increasing deliveries of vital military aid. Our commitment to supporting the Ukrainian people is absolute, as is our determination to confront Russian aggression and prosecute Putin for his war crimes,” said the British Defence Secretary.

Additionally, Healey said that “This government is committed to continuing to provide military assistance and will stand alongside our Ukrainian friends for as long as necessary.”

Additional military aid to Ukraine

Upon taking office, the Secretary of Defense immediately requested additional support for Ukraine that was readily available and met its needs on the battlefield against Russia.

This new package includes:

A quarter of a million rounds of 50 caliber ammunition
90 Brimstone anti-armor missiles
50 small military boats to support river and coastal operations
40 mine clearance vehicles
10 AS-90 artillery guns
61 bulldozers to help build defensive positions
Support for the AS-90s already delivered, including 32 new guns and essential spare parts that will help Ukraine fire another 60,000 155mm shells

Healey also called on officials to ensure that the military aid package promised in April is accelerated and delivered in full to Ukraine within the next 100 days.

In early May, the UK had already announced the largest military aid package to Ukraine. This package includes £500 million (nearly $640 million) of funding and essential equipment to strengthen Ukraine’s defense against ongoing Russian aggression.

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