UK to Supply 5,000 Air Defense Missiles to Ukraine in $2.7 Billion Deal

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced new military aid and financial support for Ukraine during a press conference following the "Securing Our Future" Summit in London on March 2.

Starmer stated that the UK aims to bolster Ukraine’s position to ensure it can negotiate from a position of strength. As part of this effort, the UK signed a $2.7 billion loan to fund additional military assistance. The loan is backed by profits from frozen Russian assets rather than British taxpayer money.

In addition, Starmer revealed a new agreement allowing Ukraine to access $2.1billion in UK export finance to purchase more than 5,000 air defense missiles. These missiles will be produced in Belfast, contributing to job creation in the UK's defense sector.

"This will be vital for protecting critical infrastructure now. And strengthening Ukraine in securing the peace when it comes," Starmer said. 

He also emphasized the need to avoid past diplomatic failures, referencing the Minsk agreements, and stressed that any future settlement must be underpinned by military strength and international commitment.

Earlier, at the "Securing Our Future" Summit in London on March 2, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the formation of a "coalition of the willing" to coordinate international support for a peace plan in Ukraine.