On July 7, 2024, newly appointed UK Defense Minister John Healey and Dutch Ministers of Defense and Foreign Affairs, Ruben Brekelmans and Caspar Veldkamp, made separate visits to Ukraine, reaffirming their countries’ commitment to supporting Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia.During his visit to Odesa, Healey announced a significant new military aid package for Ukraine. The package includes artillery guns, 250,000 rounds of 50-caliber ammunition, 90 Brimstone anti-tank missiles, 50 small military boats, 40 demining machines, 10 AS-90 artillery pieces, and 61 bulldozers for defensive positions. Healey pledged to expedite the delivery of this aid package within the next 100 days.Meanwhile, the Dutch ministers, visiting Kyiv, confirmed the Netherlands’ commitment to provide Ukraine with additional Patriot air defense systems. The package includes three launchers and one radar system. Veldkamp also announced plans to deliver F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine ‘immediately’. Furthermore, the Netherlands pledged €2 million for forensic research and a mobile forensic laboratory to assist in war crime investigations.Both the UK and Dutch officials met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other high-ranking Ukrainian officials during their visits. The meetings focused on Ukraine’s defense needs, ongoing reforms, and the importance of continued international support.These visits and announcements underscore the continued commitment of Western allies to support Ukraine, despite recent changes in government leadership in both the UK and the Netherlands. The aid packages are seen as crucial in Ukraine’s efforts to defend against Russian aggression and strengthen its military capabilities.
Key points
- UK Defense Minister John Healey announced a new military aid package for Ukraine during a visit to Odesa.
- Dutch Ministers confirmed the delivery of additional Patriot systems and F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine.
- Both countries reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine despite recent changes in government leadership.
