The UK and allies are developing more commitment to supporting Ukraine through and after war with Russia, as the invasion enters its third year. UK Defence Secretary John Healey reaffirmed this commitment in a statement – when Ukraine reaches a peace deal, the UK will put into place measures to secure Ukraine’s protection of its skies, seas, and land.
The UK has committed over £1 billion of military assistance to Ukraine via immobilised Russian assets. This has been hundreds of thousands of rounds of artillery ammunition, hundreds of air defence missiles, and many key pieces of equipment. Healey states this initiative clearly illustrates the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in defence of Russia’s occupation.
The UK is also working with the ‘Coalition of the Willing’, which includes nations willing and able to support Ukraine during a peace deal. Healey does not disclose specifics out of concern that it might inform the enemy, but assured it is very significant, very real and includes commitments from troops, plans, and ships – this would provide assurances about Ukraine’s security, without putting anyone in potential moral hazard down the line.
However, the gap is still huge, while European leaders have significant differences about how far to go on behalf of Ukraine. While countries like the UK and France are ready to deploy troops, Germany and Italy remain hesitant. This is becoming a significant roadblock towards creating a unified security framework that would support Ukraine.
The US has provided assurances that the US would support Ukraine but ruled out deploying troops. Even Donald Trump stated that the US would play a somewhat insignificant role in security guarantees, but that most of it would be up to the European states.
Despite these challenges, the UK remains committed to contributing to Ukraine’s sovereignty and security. The continued support and planning through the UK and allies emphasizes that there is still a requirement for international support if we are to contribute anything towards a lasting peace in Ukraine.
Key Stats:
Military Support to Ukraine by UK: More than £1 billion earmarked, and specified it funds through immobilised Russian assets.
Coalition of the Willing: 31 states committed in supporting Ukraine on its independence and shielding it against invasion.
Military Support USA: Pledged support confirmed by Ukraine but ruled out deployment of troops.
Military Support Europe: UK and France tended to be able to deploy troops, while Germany and Italy continued to demonstrate reluctance.
Recent developments:
Russian strikes: On September 3rd, 2025 Russia launched more than 500 drones and two dozen missiles across the country aimed at significant civilian infrastructure and energy facilities in central to western Ukraine injuring at least five people.
US diplomatic moves: Donald Trump reaffirmed his desire to negotiate a peace agreement between Russia and UK regardless of setbacks and derailments in terms of some break through agreements.
European security guarantees: French President Emmanuel Macron publically announced Europe wanted to provide security guarantees to Ukraine only once a peace agreement was signed with Russia.