John Healey, the UK’s new defence minister, visited Odesa, Ukraine, on Sunday. He pledged more artillery guns, ammunition, and missiles for Ukraine. This visit marked his first international trip since being appointed by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
UK’s Continues Support for Ukraine
Healey stressed the UK’s ongoing support for Kyiv. “There may have been a change in government, but the UK is united for Ukraine,” he said. This statement was published by Britain’s defence ministry. Healey’s visit to Odesa underscores the UK’s commitment to Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict.
UK’s New Aid Package Announced
During his visit, Healey announced a new aid package for Ukraine. This package will include 250,000 rounds of ammunition, artillery guns, de-mining vehicles, missiles, small military boats and other equipments. The aid aims to strengthen Ukraine’s defences against Russian aggression.
Meeting with Ukrainian Leaders
Healey had a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov in Odesa. The discussions focused on the current battlefield situation and future cooperation. London has been one of Kyiv’s strongest allies since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.
Tribute to Ukraine’s Navy
Healey paid tribute to Ukraine’s navy during his visit. Zelensky shared footage of Healey laying flowers at a memorial in Odesa to commemorate Ukraine’s Navy Day. This gesture symbolised the UK’s respect and solidarity with Ukraine’s armed forces.
Coordination with Dutch Defence Minister
Healey’s travel to Ukraine coincided with the visit of Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans. Both ministers took up their posts last week. They discussed the battlefield situation and the need for continued support to Ukraine. The coordination between the UK and the Netherlands highlights the unified European response to the conflict.
Caspar Veldkamp, the Foreign Minister of the Netherlands, made a substantial pledge in Kyiv. He promised to begin sending F-16 fighter planes to Ukraine “without delay.” This commitment aims to enhance Ukraine’s air defense capabilities and strengthen its overall military posture.
Timely Delivery of Aid
Healey also addressed concerns about the timely delivery of military aid. He assured that a major UK aid package announced in April would be delivered “in full to Ukraine within the next 100 days.” This statement comes in response to Kyiv’s complaints about delayed Western military supplies. The timely arrival of this aid is crucial for Ukraine’s outmanned and outgunned forces.
UK’s Strong Partnership with Ukraine
The UK’s commitment to Ukraine has been unwavering since the onset of the Russian invasion. London’s support includes military aid, training, and diplomatic backing. The visit by Healey reaffirms this strong partnership and the UK’s resolve to stand by Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty and freedom.
John Healey’s visit to Odesa and his pledges of additional military support reflect the UK’s steadfast commitment to Ukraine. The new aid package, along with the timely delivery of previously announced aid, aims to strengthen Ukraine’s defenses. The coordinated efforts with allies like the Netherlands further enhance the collective support for Ukraine. As the conflict continues, the UK’s support remains crucial in helping Ukraine defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
