Ukraine’s European allies have committed to ramping up weapons deliveries, following a shift in focus from the United States under President Donald Trump, who has moved away from supporting Kyiv’s war efforts and instead seeks to negotiate a peace deal with President Vladimir Putin.
A key meeting of Ukraine’s supporters was held at NATO’s headquarters in Brussels on Friday, where Britain and Germany took the lead, marking a change from previous meetings that were chaired by the US under President Joe Biden.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth participated in the discussions via video call.
“In the coming weeks, we will see what happens with US participation and support. I cannot predict the future,” said German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius. “As Europeans, we are assuming more responsibility.”
British Defence Minister John Healey announced that a further 21 billion euros (around $24 billion) in aid had been pledged to support Ukraine’s military efforts.
He added that Britain was preparing to send additional support worth $450 million, including thousands of drones, to assist Ukrainian forces at the front lines.
“2025 will be a critical year in this war, and now is the pivotal moment,” Healey said. “We are sending a clear message to Putin but also reinforcing our commitment to Ukraine.”
Ukraine’s Defence Minister, Rustem Umerov, expressed gratitude for the European nations taking the lead in security assistance.
“Europe is assuming the lead in providing support, and we are thankful for that. The US remains by our side, focused on peace,” Umerov stated.
