The UK government has pledged a significant boost in military aid to Ukraine, with Rishi Sunak announcing a £2.5 billion commitment during his rare visit to the country. This marks the largest annual support from Britain since Russia’s invasion.
The aid package, effective from the next financial year starting in April, focuses on enhancing Ukraine’s military capabilities with long-range missiles, air defense systems, and artillery shells. Notably, a substantial portion, £200 million, will be allocated for drones, mostly manufactured in the UK, making it the most substantial drone delivery to Ukraine by any nation.
In a strategic move, Prime Minister opted not to commit to a financial plan spanning several years, contrary to some recommendations within the government and military circles. While critics argue that a multi-year commitment would have signaled stronger long-term support to Moscow, Sunak’s decision emphasizes a short-term financial boost, exceeding the previous two years’ annual commitment of £2.3 billion. Downing Street labels this support package as the first step in establishing an enduring “unshakeable hundred-year partnership” between Ukraine and the UK.
This comprehensive aid initiative, beyond military provisions, includes a commitment of £18 billion for humanitarian aid, assistance in fortifying Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, and additional funding for online English language training. The prime minister, underscoring the UK’s solidarity with Ukraine, stated that their security is intertwined, and the commitment aims to fortify Ukraine in both challenging and prosperous times.
Sunak’s visit, occurring 15 months after his last one in November 2022, addresses the urgent need for increased clarity in UK support for Ukraine, as emphasized by MPs who urged the government to provide timely information for Ukraine’s military planning. This commitment also stands out amid challenges faced by the United States and the European Union in finalizing their own support packages. In the US, the approval of a $60 billion (£47 billion) aid package for Ukraine is hindered by Republican opposition, focusing on redirecting funds towards addressing migration issues along the southern border.
The UK-Ukraine agreement, signed during Sunak’s visit, encompasses a range of bilateral assurances covering military and economic support. This pact is strategically designed to deter Russian aggression, particularly before Ukraine’s potential accession to NATO. The UK is hailed as the first G7 country to formalize such an agreement, aligning with commitments made by all seven leading industrial nations at the NATO summit in Vilnius the previous year.
