At the 27th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in Brussels on Friday, NATO allies made significant strides in bolstering Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression, with both the UK and Germany unveiling substantial military aid packages. The meeting, co-chaired by the UK and Germany, underscored the growing responsibility of European allies in supporting Ukraine as the war enters a critical phase in 2025.
UK’s Record Military Assistance
UK Defense Secretary John Healey announced a £350 million ($460 million) aid package as part of a broader military support effort that will see Britain allocate £4.5 billion ($5.7 billion) to Ukraine for 2025. This marks the highest level of British military assistance to Ukraine so far. The new aid package includes radar systems, anti-tank mines, and hundreds of thousands of drones. Additionally, £150 million ($190 million) will be dedicated to maintaining and repairing battlefield equipment, an essential effort to keep Ukrainian forces operational as the conflict continues.
Healey emphasized the urgency of the situation, calling 2025 a “critical year” in the war. He urged NATO partners to increase their commitments, warning that failing to act now could jeopardize the peace in the long run. “This extra support will strengthen Ukrainian troops in the close fight,” he remarked, stressing the importance of sustained aid.
Germany’s Multibillion-Dollar Commitment
Germany also took a leading role, with Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announcing an additional €3 billion ($3.4 billion) in military aid for Ukraine in 2025, as well as a further €8 billion ($9 billion) pledged through 2029. The aid package includes advanced air defense systems, 120 MANPADS air defense systems, 300 reconnaissance drones, 15 Leopard 1A5 tanks, and 100,000 rounds of artillery ammunition. Pistorius highlighted the ongoing threat posed by Russia’s attacks on civilian infrastructure, noting that despite repeated calls for peace, Russian aggression has not abated.
Germany’s contribution also includes four IRIS-T air defense systems and 30 additional Patriot missiles, reinforcing Ukraine’s defense capabilities against Russia’s aerial strikes. Pistorius also called attention to the increasing need for advanced air and missile defense systems in Ukraine, particularly as Russia continues to launch missiles and drones at Ukrainian targets on a daily basis.
International Coalition for Electromagnetic Warfare
In a significant development, Germany announced the formation of a new coalition with ten NATO allies to support Ukraine in the field of electromagnetic warfare. This initiative focuses on securing communications, conducting reconnaissance, and defending against drones—crucial capabilities as modern warfare increasingly relies on these technologies. Pistorius stressed that this coalition would help Ukraine build both immediate defense capabilities and long-term resilience for the postwar period.
Ukraine’s Urgent Need for Support
Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, speaking at the meeting, expressed gratitude for the substantial support received from NATO countries. However, he highlighted the pressing need for more advanced air defense systems. “We need more Patriot systems and other new technologies to defend against Russia’s daily missile attacks,” Umerov stated, acknowledging the growing complexity of the battlefield.
He also addressed the role of the US, reaffirming that while European partners are taking a more prominent leadership role, the US remains Ukraine’s “prime partner” in the fight for peace. “Together, we are working towards a shared responsibility for Ukraine’s defense,” Umerov said.
European leaders at the meeting made it clear that their commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity remains unwavering. With contributions from the EU, Norway, and other NATO allies, the total military assistance pledged to Ukraine has reached €21 billion ($22.6 billion) this year alone, with further commitments expected in the coming months.
As the war continues to reshape the geopolitical landscape, the messages sent by NATO allies during this crucial meeting are clear: Ukraine’s defense is a global priority, and the international community stands united in ensuring that the country has the resources it needs to defend itself against Russian aggression.
In closing, UK Defense Secretary Healey emphasized the importance of not becoming complacent. “We cannot afford to forget the war,” he warned, urging continued vigilance and commitment from all allied nations.