The UK government has pledged to send hundreds of new long-range attack drones and air defence missiles to Ukraine ahead of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s meeting with Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak. The two leaders are set to meet at the prime minister’s country retreat, Chequers, for “substantive negotiations” over military aid. The government has confirmed that hundreds of new long-range attack drones with a range of over 200km will be provided to Ukraine, in addition to further unmanned aerial systems and air defence missiles.
UK to Provide Crucial Support in Ukraine’s Resistance Against Russia
Chancellor Sunak has described this as a “crucial moment” in Ukraine’s resistance against Russia’s invasion and stated that the UK must not let them down. President Zelenskyy has embarked on a multi-stop European tour to gather more support from allies as Kyiv prepares for its counteroffensive against Russian forces. The UK’s announcement of further military aid follows last week’s confirmation that it has donated long-range precision missiles to Ukraine’s military. The government has stated that the further provisions will be delivered in the coming months.
France and Germany Also Pledge Military Aid to Ukraine
The UK is one of the largest suppliers of military aid to Ukraine, contributing £2.3 billion worth of support last year and pledging a similar amount for 2023. Germany has promised Kyiv its biggest military support package so far, with further arms deliveries worth €2.7bn (£2.35bn). France has also pledged further military aid, with President Emmanuel Macron promising to supply dozens of light tanks and armoured vehicles “in the weeks ahead”.
Despite months of fighting, neither Kyiv nor Moscow’s forces have been able to take full control of the eastern city of Bakhmut. Analysis suggests that the battle for the city is not about seizing ground but maximising enemy casualties. President Zelenskyy has stated that his troops will not attack Russian territory as part of their counteroffensive.
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