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Starmer Announces £1.6bn Aid Package for Ukraine's Defence
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a £1.6 billion finance package aimed at bolstering Ukraine's defences, enabling the purchase of over 5,000 air defence missiles. The funding, confirmed during a European leaders' summit in London, follows the previous £2.2 billion loan pledged on Saturday.
In his opening remarks at the summit, Starmer emphasized that a successful outcome for Ukraine is vital not only for the country but for the security of all the nations gathered. "Getting a good outcome for Ukraine is not just a matter of right or wrong; it is essential for the security of every nation here," he stated. The summit saw key figures including French President Emmanuel Macron, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who was warmly welcomed in London, reflecting the international support for Ukraine's fight against Russia’s aggression.
Starmer's £1.6bn contribution, which includes support for the missile production in Belfast, aims to reinforce Ukraine's ability to protect vital infrastructure and prepare for long-term peace. He stated, “This will be vital for protecting critical infrastructure now and strengthening Ukraine in securing peace. We cannot accept a weak deal like Minsk, which Russia can breach with ease."
In addition to military aid, Starmer stressed the importance of an enduring peace plan, stating that any final agreement must involve Russia but must not allow Russia to dictate terms. "We cannot repeat the mistakes of the past. A weak agreement is not an option this time," he said. Starmer has also indicated that a plan for Ukraine’s future will be developed in consultation with the US and other international partners.
The summit also revealed that multiple countries are expressing interest in joining the coalition to support Ukraine, although Starmer acknowledged that some countries may choose not to contribute in the same way.
Reflecting on the broader geopolitical landscape, Starmer affirmed that the US remains a reliable ally in this effort. He dismissed any notion that the US is an "unreliable ally" and reiterated the importance of continued collaboration between the UK, Europe, the US, and Ukraine.
Starmer concluded, "We are at a crossroads in history today. This is not a moment for more talk. It's time to act." He reiterated the commitment of the UK and its allies to continue advancing peace efforts, with leaders set to meet again soon to keep the momentum going.
This announcement marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict, as world leaders unite to provide Ukraine with both immediate defence support and a path toward long-term peace and security.