KYIV, Ukraine: The UK’s newly appointed Defence Minister, John Healey, pledged increased military support for Ukraine during his visit to the southern city of Odesa on Sunday. Healey, appointed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, emphasized the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine amidst ongoing Russian aggression.
Healy unveiled a massive military aid package that included artillery weapons, missiles, demining equipment, small military boats, and 250,000 rounds of ammunition during his first overseas tour in his new position. The UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine was highlighted by the visit to Odesa, a city that is regularly the target of Russian missile and drone strikes.
Rustem Umerov, the minister of defense, and Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, met with Healey. Healey promised in his statement that despite the recent change in administration, the UK is still unified in its support for Ukraine.
Zelensky shared footage of Healey laying flowers at a memorial in Odesa to mark Ukraine’s Navy Day. Zelensky also briefed Healey and Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans on the current battlefield situation.
In Kyiv, Netherlands’ Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp committed to sending F-16 fighter planes to Ukraine “without delay.” Healey reiterated that a major UK aid package announced in April would be fully delivered within the next 100 days.
Kyiv has often expressed concerns over the delayed arrival of Western military supplies, which are crucial for its defense against the Russian invasion. Healey’s visit and the pledged support aim to address these concerns and bolster Ukraine’s military capabilities.
