BRUSSELS (News Agency) - As Western nations convened at NATO headquarters to bolster arms and ammunition for Ukraine, Britain revealed a significant increase in military aid to the war-torn nation on Friday.
In collaboration with Norway, Britain committed over $580 million to supply Ukraine with hundreds of thousands of military drones, radar technology, and anti-tank mines. The funds will also support repair and maintenance agreements to keep Ukraine's armored vehicles operational.
Prior to the Brussels meeting, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov emphasized the importance of enhancing Ukraine's air defenses. He advocated for the provision of advanced systems, such as Patriot missile systems, via social media.
Umerov stated that securing these systems requires a political commitment to safeguard Ukrainian cities and citizens from Russian ballistic weapons, noting that partner nations possess such capabilities.
With the conflict entering its fourth year, Russian forces maintain a strategic advantage. Ukrainian authorities and military experts anticipate a renewed Russian offensive in the near future, aimed at intensifying pressure and strengthening Russia's negotiation position.
The Ukraine Defense Contact Group convened for its 27th meeting, co-chaired by Britain and Germany. While Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth was unable to attend in person, he participated via video conference. This forum was initially established and led by the United States.
Hegseth's absence was due to a trip to Panama earlier in the week, returning to Washington on Wednesday evening.