Britain Pledges €597 Million for Ukraine’s Air Defense
The funding is intended to protect civilians and essential infrastructure from Russian attacks during the winter, according to the British government.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham and finance minister John Healey announced the pledge to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a telephone call on October 28, 2026. The money will come from Britain’s Ministry of Defence.
The commitment forms part of a wider package worth more than €11.9 billion, announced in Britain’s budget. Burnham described it as the country’s largest financial commitment to Ukraine.
Loans and Guarantees Support Ukraine’s Economy
Approximately €8.4 billion in economic support will be made available over three years. This includes guarantees for World Bank loans and funding through the bank’s crisis facility to support Ukraine’s recovery.
A further €3.6 billion will expand the financing available through UK Export Finance, Britain’s export credit agency. Military purchases will take priority, with financing arranged through individual agreements.
These measures come on top of Britain’s existing commitment of approximately €3.6 billion annually in military assistance until 2030–31, or for as long as needed.
London Promises Tougher Sanctions
Healey said Britain would increase sanctions pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin to push him toward negotiations.
The leaders also agreed to seek further support for Ukraine from European partners at the forthcoming European Political Community meeting.
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