The commitment, reported by the Guardian's politics live blog on Wednesday, comes ahead of a busy political day in the UK. Prime Minister Keir Starmer is due to face MPs at PMQs before hosting Zelenskyy for talks. The announcement underscores Britain's ongoing military support for Ukraine as the war enters its third year. Separately, the live blog noted a bitter exchange between Kemi Badenoch and Nigel Farage over the Chagos Islands, with Badenoch calling Farage's offer to Donald Trump 'humiliating'.
UK to increase supply of anti-drone missiles to Ukraine, Burnham says
Prime minister set to face PMQs and meet President Zelenskyy in London
By LineZotpaper
Published
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The UK government has announced it will increase the supply of anti-drone missiles to Ukraine, according to Andy Burnham, as preparations continue for Prime Minister's Questions and a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in London.
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Analysis
Why This Matters
- The additional anti-drone missiles will help Ukraine defend against a persistent threat from Russian drone attacks on infrastructure and front-line positions.
- The timing, ahead of a direct meeting between Starmer and Zelenskyy, signals that Ukraine's military needs remain a top priority for the UK government.
- Drone warfare has become a defining feature of the conflict, making such supplies tactically significant for Ukrainian forces.
Background
The UK has been a leading European supplier of military aid to Ukraine since the full-scale invasion began in 2022, providing a range of weapons systems including anti-tank missiles, artillery and air defence. Anti-drone systems have become increasingly critical as both sides rely heavily on unmanned aerial vehicles for reconnaissance and attack. The announcement suggests the UK is responding to specific Ukrainian requests for counter-drone capabilities.
Key Perspectives
UK government: The government frames its support as essential for Ukraine's self-defence and European security. Increasing anti-drone missile supply fits within that broader strategy. Russia: Moscow has consistently condemned Western arms supplies, arguing they prolong the conflict and escalate tensions with NATO. Critics and skeptics: Some question whether incremental increases in aid are sufficient to shift the battlefield balance, and whether the pace of delivery matches Ukraine's urgent needs.
What to Watch
- Wednesday's PMQs and the Starmer-Zelenskyy meeting – any new announcements on additional aid packages or training.
- Official confirmation of the exact type and quantity of anti-drone missiles from the Ministry of Defence.
- Reactions from Moscow and from Kyiv's other Western allies.