UK allocates GBP 500 mln for Ukraine's air defense - Healey

British Defense Minister John Healey has announced the allocation of an additional half a billion pounds ($681.4 million) to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense.

As reported by the Interfax-Ukraine agency, Healey made the announcement before a meeting of NATO defense ministers in Brussels.

"This afternoon, I will confirm that the United Kingdom is providing Ukraine with an additional half a billion pounds for urgent air defense. In this way, the United Kingdom is acting as a force for good in the world, building a new European security agreement within NATO," he said during a media briefing.

Healey added that he was proud of the United Kingdom’s leadership and the United Kingdom’s commitment to its allies.

"We will support you. We will protect you. We will fight alongside you in this new era of threats and hard power," the minister said.

Healey also confirmed that the UK will play a central role in NATO’s Arctic Security Mission, aimed at strengthening security in the region.