Starmer to Fund UK Missiles for Ukraine Using £70 Million Interest from Frozen Russian Assets
UK Sends 350 Advanced Air Defence Missiles to Ukraine
In a groundbreaking move, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a fresh military aid package to Ukraine, funded by £70 million in interest earned from frozen Russian assets. This marks the first time the UK has directly used Russia-linked funds to purchase weaponry for Kyiv.
The package includes 350 advanced air defence missiles, originally designed as air-to-air weapons but swiftly adapted for ground launch by UK engineers. These missiles will be deployed using UK-supplied Raven systems, with five additional systems already en route, bringing the total to 13 on the front lines.
Innovative Missile Adaptation Speeds Up Support
The ASRAAM missiles, manufactured in Britain, were converted for ground use in a record three months by the Royal Air Force and MBDA UK. Mounted on British-made trucks, these mobile air defence units enhance Ukraine’s ability to counter aerial threats effectively.
Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized that the missiles will save lives and showcase the UK’s military-industrial capacity to meet modern warfare demands.
Starmer: Russia Should Pay for Its War
Speaking ahead of the NATO summit in The Hague, Starmer said, “Russia, not Ukraine, should pay the price for Putin’s barbaric and illegal war.” He reinforced the importance of using seized Russian assets to strengthen Ukraine’s defences, stating, “The security of Ukraine is vital to our own.”
Healey added that Russia’s ongoing missile attacks are indiscriminate, underscoring that “Putin is not serious about peace.”
Part of the UK’s Largest-Ever Military Aid Package
This missile delivery is part of the UK’s record £4.5 billion commitment to Ukraine this year. Earlier, the UK signed a £1.6 billion deal for over 5,000 air defence missiles and invested £350 million to boost drone deliveries tenfold.
The NATO summit will also see UK ministers focus on rising tensions in the Middle East and push for increased long-term defence spending among allies.
UK-Ukraine Military Cooperation Strengthens
Prior to the summit, Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy agreed to deepen cooperation on military production between the two countries, aiming to enhance Ukraine’s defence capabilities further.
What This Means Moving Forward
- The use of frozen Russian funds to finance military aid is a significant precedent, signaling that aggressor nations can bear direct financial consequences for their actions.
- Enhanced air defence capabilities will help Ukraine better protect its skies against ongoing attacks.
- The UK’s continued support underscores its strategic commitment to Ukraine amid a protracted conflict.