During his visit to Odesa, southern Ukraine, newly appointed British Defence Minister John Healey reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia. Healey, on his inaugural international trip since assuming office, emphasized the continuity of UK support under the leadership of Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
“We stand united for Ukraine,” Healey declared, as reported by the UK’s defence ministry. He announced a comprehensive new aid package including artillery guns, 250,000 rounds of ammunition, de-mining vehicles, small military boats, missiles, and other critical equipment. These provisions aim to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities, particularly in regions like Odesa, which have frequently been targeted by Russian missile and drone attacks.
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During his visit, Healey held meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Defence Minister Rustem Umerov in Odesa. Healey’s discussions focused on the current situation on the battlefield, as well as strategies to enhance Ukraine’s resilience against ongoing Russian aggression.
The UK has been among Ukraine’s strongest supporters since Russia’s invasion began in February 2022. Healey’s visit coincided with Ukraine’s Navy Day, where he paid tribute by laying flowers at a memorial, as captured in footage shared by President Zelensky.
Meanwhile, in Kyiv, the Netherlands’ Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp committed to promptly sending F-16 fighter planes to Ukraine, underscoring continued European solidarity with Kyiv. Healey also assured that a substantial UK aid package announced earlier would be delivered “in full to Ukraine within the next 100 days.” This assurance responds to Kyiv’s concerns regarding the timely arrival of Western military supplies crucial for its defense efforts against superior Russian forces.
The visit and commitments from both the UK and the Netherlands signal ongoing international support for Ukraine amid its struggle to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
For further updates and developments, visit the respective government and defence ministry websites.
