The United Kingdom has announced an additional £2.5 billion in military support to Ukraine, marking its largest annual commitment since the onset of the Russian invasion. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak disclosed this substantial aid during a rare visit to Ukraine, where he is also set to sign a new agreement to bolster Ukraine’s long-term security.
The forthcoming military package, which will commence in the next financial year starting April, includes a range of support measures. These comprise long-range missiles, air defense systems, and artillery shells. A notable portion of the package, amounting to £200 million, is allocated for drones, predominantly manufactured in the UK. This move is poised to make the UK the largest supplier of drones to Ukraine.
In a strategic decision, Prime Minister Sunak has chosen not to commit to a multi-year financial pledge. This approach diverges from the private recommendations of some ministers and senior military officials, who believe a long-term financial commitment would send a more robust message of support to Kyiv and a warning to Moscow.
The UK’s current military aid to Ukraine, surpassing the previous annual commitment of £2.3 billion, reflects a £200 million increase over the last two years. Downing Street has framed this support as the initial phase of what it describes as an “unshakeable hundred-year partnership” between the UK and Ukraine.
The support package extends beyond military aid, including £18 billion for humanitarian assistance, efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, and additional resources for online English language training.
During his visit, his first since November 2022, Prime Minister Sunak emphasized the UK’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine. He stated, “I am here today with one message: the UK will also not falter. We will stand with Ukraine in their darkest hours and in better times to come.” He highlighted the UK’s role as one of Ukraine’s closest allies, recognizing that Ukraine’s security is integral to the UK’s security.
This commitment from the UK comes amidst calls from MPs for more clarity and support for Ukraine, allowing for more effective military planning. It also occurs against a backdrop of challenges faced by the United States and the European Union in finalizing their support packages. The US is grappling with a political impasse over a $60 billion support package for Ukraine, while the EU faces obstacles due to Hungary’s opposition to a €50 billion aid package.
The UK-Ukraine agreement, set to be signed today, encompasses various bilateral assurances of military and economic support. This pact aims to deter Russian aggression prior to Ukraine’s potential Nato membership. The UK takes the lead among G7 countries in signing such an agreement, fulfilling a commitment made at the Nato summit in Vilnius last year.
