The results of “Ramstein-24”: what weapons will Ukraine receive and Austin’s important statements

Another, 24th meeting of the Contact Group on Defense Support of Ukraine in the “Ramstein” format took place at the American air base in Germany. This time it was held for the first time with the participation of the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyi, which gave special importance to the discussion.

At the final briefing, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced new agreements on military aid to Ukraine. He emphasized that the allies hear Ukraine’s calls for immediate help and understand the complexity of the situation, especially in areas such as Pokrovsky. At the same time, he highly praised the courage of the Ukrainian Defense Forces, which have been opposing one of the largest armies in the world for more than two and a half years.

“We must provide assistance to Ukraine so that it can advance, in particular, in the Kursk direction. Because it has been fighting against one of the most powerful armies in the world for two and a half years.”, – noted Austin.

Separately, Austin commented on the issue of providing ATACMS missiles, explaining that Russian aircraft have already moved beyond their range, but Ukraine has enough opportunities to attack Russian targets by other means, in particular with the help of Storm Shadow.

“Ukraine already has significant capabilities of its own to attack targets beyond the capabilities of ATACMS or Storm Shadow. The Russians have moved their aircraft that they use for air defense systems beyond the range of ATACMS. Our focus is on helping Ukraine to be more effective in defending its territories”, – said Austin after the “Ramstein” meeting.

The Minister of Defense also expressed his belief that the war in Ukraine will end at the negotiating table, but emphasized that it is still difficult to predict when this will happen. He noted that the war could end quickly if Putin decided to withdraw his troops.

“Ukraine is focused on protecting its own sovereign territory, and we will continue to do everything to help them do that.”– emphasized the US Defense Minister.

Announcement of new arms deliveries

USA:

The U.S. is working on upgrading the R-27 air-to-air missiles to attack aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles. Washington allocates more than 200 million dollars for the purchase of components for the production of drones and electronic warfare systems. An additional $250 million aid package has been announced, which will include air defense missiles, artillery ammunition, armored vehicles and anti-tank weapons.

Germany:

Berlin will provide Ukraine with 12 more Panzerhaubitze 2000 self-propelled howitzers for 150 million euros. In addition, it is working on the rapid transfer of 77 Leopard 1A5 tanks, and is also focusing on strengthening air defense.

Great Britain:

London allocated more than 210 million dollars for the transfer of 650 light multi-purpose missiles with a range of more than 6 km, which can be launched from various carriers.

Canada:

This week, Canadian instructors began training Ukrainian pilots on the F-16. 300 million dollars have been allocated for this training project. Canada will also provide CRV-7 missiles and 970 machine guns to support the armed forces.

Netherlands:

The Netherlands is supporting Ukraine with the supply of F-16 maintenance equipment and additional air-to-air missiles. The country’s contribution to the International Fund for Ukraine has already reached 125 million euros, which are aimed at the purchase of drones.

Spain:

Spain has handed over a HAWK air defense battery with six launchers already in Poland, ready for further action.