In Less Than 48 Hours Since Appointment, UK Defence Minister Visits Ukraine and Announces New Aid Package

Less than 48 hours after John Healey was appointed as the UK’s new Defence Secretary following the Labour Party's victory in the July 4th elections, he visited Odesa, Ukraine. After a meeting with President Zelenskyy and discussions with his counterpart Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, John Healey announced that the UK would provide a new package of support to Ukraine. This new package includes:

• A quarter of a million of 50 calibre ammunition.

• 90 anti-armour Brimstone missiles.

• 50 small military boats to support river and coastal operations.

• 40 de-mining vehicles.

• 10 AS-90 artillery guns.

• 61 bulldozers to help build defensive positions.

• Support for previously gifted AS-90s, including 32 new barrels and critical spares which will help Ukraine fire another 60,000 155mm rounds.

He also pledged to fast-track military support committed for Ukraine in April to arrive within the next 100 days.

The new UK Defense Minister said:

“There may have been a change in government, but the UK is united for Ukraine. 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. This government is steadfast in our commitment to continue supplying military assistance and will stand shoulder to shoulder with our Ukrainian friends for as long as it takes.”