Healey on Ramstein meeting results: Ukraine will receive billions in aid

UK Defense Secretary John Healey said this at a press conference following the Ramstein-format meeting, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

“Ukraine walks away from this meeting backed by members of this Group, backed by billions of dollars worth of arms and ammunition committed today,” he said.

Healey stressed that this assistance will keep the Ukrainian Armed Forces equipped in order to help increase pressure on Russia, to help “force Putin to the negotiating table, to help bring closer a durable peace.”

While he did not specify which countries announced new aid packages, Healey confirmed that the UK is providing an additional GBP 150 million in military aid, along with a previously pledged GBP 4.5 billion in security assistance for Ukraine this year.

He also stressed that 2025 will be a critical year for the war, as Russian forces continue their bombardment of Ukrainian cities and infrastructure.

“Russia is still ruthless. Russia is still dangerous. And at this critical moment, we will step up further our support to Ukraine,” Healey said.

He also noted that newly appointed U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth reaffirmed “the U.S.’s continued commitment to this Group, to Ukraine’s pursuit of a lasting peace, and the importance of security guarantees.” According to Healey, the Brussels meeting also saw the U.S. urging European nations to step up their efforts.

In response, Healey emphasized that European countries have already increased their contributions and will continue to do so.

“NATO allies pledged EUR 40 billion in military aid for Ukraine in 2024 and then went on to deliver EUR 50 billion. The majority — nearly 60% — of that aid to Ukraine last year came from European nations,” he added.

A meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group — also known as the Ramstein format — was held in Brussels on February 12. This was the first meeting chaired by the UK defense minister.

Photo: Office of the President of Ukraine