Ukraine receives new military pledges at UDCG meeting, EU to co-fund U.S. arms supply

Reuters

Ukraine has secured major new military commitments from its allies during the 29th Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) meeting, including expanded air defence aid, long-range drone support, and a new co-financing arrangement between the EU and NATO for U.S. weapons deliveries.

Ukrainian Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal said Monday that the gathering, held virtually and co-hosted by the UK and Germany, brought together 52 participating countries and organisations. He said the outcome reflects a united stance behind Ukraine’s defence and sovereignty.

“The free world stands with Ukraine and supports peace,” Shmyhal said in a statement posted on X. He added that discussions focused on long-term support and strengthening the Ukrainian army.

One of the key developments is the decision for European Union countries to co-finance the NATO-managed delivery of U.S. weapons to Ukraine. Germany, in particular, will join a coalition effort to supply five Patriot air defence systems, which Shmyhal said will arrive “soon.”

Berlin also pledged 200,000 rounds of ammunition for Gepard anti-aircraft systems and funding to help Ukraine procure long-range drones.

Other major contributions include:

  • Netherlands: €200 million for drone interceptor systems and €125 million for F-16 support
  • Norway: €1 billion drone assistance package for 2025 and €400 million toward domestic Ukrainian drone production
  • Canada: C$20 million for tank maintenance and industry support via the Danish-led model
  • Sweden: A new aid package focused on air defence, artillery, and vehicles

The meeting also saw participation from key defence and diplomatic figures, including NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, Supreme Allied Commander Europe Lt. Gen. David Grynkewich, and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas.

Shmyhal thanked the U.S., United Kingdom, and Germany for their continued leadership and support.

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