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The United Kingdom has pledged to replenish Ukraine’s artillery ammunition with a £245 million munitions package, two years after Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine.
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The UK Ministry of Defence outlined that the investment in Ukrainian artillery is critical, with artillery responsible for degrading Russian forces and mitigating the threat of a significant Russian breakthrough in tandem with drones and UK-supplied radar systems.
The package will see the United Kingdom “procure and invigorate” the supply chains, amid ongoing concern that the Ukrainian Armed Forces are facing an artillery shortage.
This week, Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov flagged concerns that half of Western military shipments arrive late while the country continues to face a shortage of shells.
It was recently revealed by Bloomberg that the Ukrainian Armed Forces were restricted to firing 2,000 shells a day, a rate of fire that equates to one-third of Russia’s.
UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps explained that the funding was essential for the Ukrainian military to stop further Russian advances as the world reflects on the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
“Two years ago to the day, Putin defied all rationality and regulation to launch his reckless and illegal full-scale invasion – throwing tens of thousands of unprepared and unwitting troops into what he described as a limited military operation. But as the war now enters its third year, the steadfast determination and resilience of the brave people of Ukraine continues to inspire the world,” Shapps said.
“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.
“Nearly a quarter of a billion pounds’ worth of UK funding will boost their critical stockpiles of artillery ammunition, while the Royal Air Force completes a further delivery of advanced tank-busting missiles.
“Together, we will ensure Putin fails, and a victory for democracy, the rules-based international order, and the Ukrainian people.”
Despite the shortages, the Defence Secretary reflected on the victories seized by the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
“Against all odds, the Armed Forces of Ukraine have pushed back the Russian invaders to recapture half of the land Putin stole, while significantly degrading Russia’s capabilities – with around 30 per cent of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet destroyed or damaged, and thousands of tanks and armoured vehicles reduced to scrap.”
