The UK government has announced a new £450 million military aid package to Ukraine, signalling continued commitment to supporting Kyiv’s fight against Russian aggression. The announcement comes as the UK and Germany co-host a critical meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group in Brussels, bringing together representatives from 50 nations to ramp up international pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin.
UK Defence Secretary John Healey underscored the urgency of the support, saying, “We must step up to deter Russian aggression by continuing to bolster Ukraine’s defences.” He called 2025 a “critical year” for Ukraine and emphasised the importance of providing frontline forces with the equipment they need.
The latest package includes funding for hundreds of thousands of drones, radar systems, anti-tank mines, and extensive repairs and maintenance to military vehicles previously supplied by the UK. Of the total amount, £350 million is being provided directly by the UK, with additional funding from Norway via the UK-led International Fund for Ukraine.
A significant portion of the package—£160 million—will be dedicated to maintaining and repairing existing equipment in Ukrainian use. More than £250 million will fund combat-ready systems under what is being called a “close fight” package, specifically targeting battlefield needs with tactical technology and supplies.
The announcement follows Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s earlier £1.6 billion missile deal and a £2.2 billion loan to Ukraine, part of broader Western efforts to sustain Kyiv’s military resistance. The new aid, however, has faced criticism from opposition voices like the Liberal Democrats, who described it as “small change” and called for the UK government to seize Russian assets within Britain to provide more substantial funding.
Friday’s defence ministers’ summit marks a shift in leadership within the Ukraine Defence Contact Group. Traditionally led by the US, the group is now co-chaired by Healey and German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, reflecting Europe’s growing role in security leadership amid changing US foreign policy priorities.
Healey stressed the importance of strengthening Ukraine’s army over deploying pea
