UK Boosts Ukraine’s Artillery Reserves With £245m

UK Boosts Ukraine’s Artillery Reserves With £245m

Britain revealed a new £245 million ($311 million) defense package on Saturday to enhance the production of “urgently needed artillery ammunition” in Ukraine, following the conflict that began with Russia two years ago.

Defense Secretary Grant Shapps acknowledged Ukraine’s armed forces for reclaiming significant territories seized by Russia during its invasion in 2022, defying all odds.

Hr said, “Ukraine’s armed forces against all odds had recaptured large parts of the land seized by Russia in its 2022 invasion.

“But they cannot win this fight without the support of the international community -– and that’s why we continue to do what it takes to ensure Ukraine can continue to fight towards victory.”

Additionally, The Ministry of Defence (MoD) said, The new funding will be used to “procure and invigorate supply chains to produce urgently needed artillery ammunition to boost Ukraine’s reserves. 

” Ukraine has been particularly noted for its highly effective use of its artillery”, which has “proved critical to Ukraine’s battlefield successes, continuously degrading Russia’s forces and preventing them from making significant breakthroughs.”

During a parliamentary update on Thursday, Shapps disclosed the delivery of an additional 200 Brimstone anti-tank missiles, raising the total to over 1,300.

The United Kingdom will also co-lead an international coalition providing thousands of drones to Ukraine.

Although the exact count of Ukraine’s military casualties remains undisclosed by Kyiv, US officials estimate around 70,000 soldiers killed and 120,000 injured.

While Russia has also suffered substantial losses, it appears to replenish its forces through coercion, financial incentives, and its larger population.

The UK utilized the second anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion to announce an additional commitment of £8.5 million in humanitarian aid for the Red Cross Movement and the Ukraine Humanitarian Fund.

These funds will enhance the UK’s continued support for emergency response efforts and crucial humanitarian aid distribution across Ukraine in collaboration with local partners.

Of this funding, approximately £6 million will support the Red Cross Movement’s impartial activities, with £2.5 million allocated to the Ukraine Humanitarian Fund under the UN’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

AFP