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Europe Rallies Support for Ukraine Amid Ongoing Conflict
Defence ministers from across Europe have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine as the conflict continues, pledging a substantial €21 billion (approximately $24 billion or £18 billion) in military aid. This new funding comes during what officials describe as a “critical year” for the war effort in Ukraine.
Germany is set to contribute more than half of the total aid, amounting to €11 billion over four years. British Defence Minister John Healey emphasized that these pledges are intended to send a powerful message to Moscow regarding European unity and resolve.
The major announcements were made during a meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, held at NATO’s headquarters in Brussels. The meeting focused on providing vital military equipment, such as air defence systems and missiles, as Europe strategizes to address the diminished military support from the United States during the Trump administration.
Officials expressed concerns regarding the ongoing nature of the conflict, with Healey noting an absence of any indications that peace talks would soon resume, despite previous promises made by Trump for a ceasefire.
A part of the newly pledged aid includes a £450 million (about $590 million) package from the UK and Norway, aimed at enhancing Ukraine’s military capabilities through increased funding for radar systems, anti-tank mines, vehicle repairs, and the delivery of hundreds of thousands of drones. This new commitment is part of a broader British promise of £4.5 billion made earlier this year.
Air defence infrastructure was highlighted as a pressing need, with Healey revealing that Russian forces have deployed around 10,000 glide bombs and launched a staggering 100 one-way attack drones daily within the initial three months of this year. The UK Defence Secretary stated that drones are now responsible for causing 70% to 80% of casualties on the battlefield.
Germany’s contribution also focuses significantly on artillery, with Defence Minister Boris Pistorius announcing plans to send 100,000 rounds of artillery ammunition, 25 infantry fighting vehicles, 15 battle tanks, 100 ground surveillance radars, and 120 Man-Portable Air Defence Systems. Additionally, Berlin will provide four IRIS-T air defence systems equipped with 300 missiles to bolster Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.
“A robust military presence is essential for Ukraine, as it is only through strength that a just and enduring peace can be achieved,” Pistorius stated during the briefing in Brussels.
The conference in Brussels marked the 27th gathering of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, attended by defence ministers from around 50 nations. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth participated remotely, commending the ongoing efforts of European allies.
Pistorius downplayed concerns regarding Hegseth’s remote participation, clarifying that scheduling challenges, not a lack of commitment, were the reason for his attendance online. Key leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, also joined the discussions from afar, reflecting the global interest and involvement in Ukraine’s security situation.
Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, who was present in Brussels, expressed appreciation for Europe’s proactive role in leading security assistance initiatives for Ukraine. He acknowledged that Hegseth’s involvement signifies ongoing US support amidst the crisis.
Healey, along with both Pistorius and Umerov, criticized Russia for its apparent reluctance to engage in meaningful peace negotiations. Healey highlighted that it has been over a month since Russia turned down a US-backed peace proposal, while Pistorius reiterated that Russia seems disinterested in pursuing peace at this time.
These discussions coincided with US envoy Steve Witkoff’s visit to Russia, as he sought to encourage the Kremlin to accept a truce. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov mentioned that discussions would be held between President Putin and Witkoff but cautioned that no significant breakthroughs should be anticipated.
Meanwhile, the situation on the ground remains tense. Russia’s defence ministry reported the capture of the village of Zhuravka in Ukraine’s Sumy region, though Ukrainian officials have not yet confirmed this information. Earlier in the week, President Zelensky indicated the presence of up to 67,000 Russian soldiers positioned near the northern borders of Sumy, suggesting preparations for a possible assault on the city.
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