Ukraine to receive hundreds of air defense missiles funded by Russian assets
Photo: Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Ukraine will receive 350 modern missiles for air defense systems from the United Kingdom. The missiles will be purchased using funds obtained from frozen Russian assets, states Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, according to the ministry.
"This became possible thanks to the ERA program, which enabled raising more than £2 billion through interest income from frozen Russian assets. This is an important mechanism of justice — where the aggressor country pays for the consequences of its own war," the statement said.
The missiles will be used in anti-aircraft missile systems specially developed to meet Ukraine's needs. Soon, five more such systems will be delivered to the Armed Forces by British partners.
"Thanks to the UK government, Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Defense Minister John Healey, and all the partners who continue to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense and help protect the lives of our citizens," Umerov added.
Strengthening Ukraine’s air defense
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer previously announced the provision of 350 ASRAAM missiles to Ukraine, intended for air defense systems. The funds will come from revenues generated by frozen Russian assets. Starmer emphasized that it is only fair to make the aggressor pay for the consequences of the war it started.
Ukraine’s air defense is also being strengthened from other directions. On June 23, a Norwegian company, Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace — manufacturer of NASAMS air defense systems — opened an office in Ukraine. Efforts are underway to bolster the protection of civilians and critical infrastructure against Russian attacks.
After the summit in The Hague on June 25, US President Donald Trump did not rule out providing Ukraine with missiles for the Patriot air defense systems. These systems play a crucial role in shielding Ukrainian cities from ballistic and aeroballistic missile attacks.
