Ukraine seeks $6 billion to bolster defence and take war back to Russian soil

Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal announced on 21 July that Ukraine needs US$6 billion to address its 2025 defense procurement needs, aiming to strengthen its military capabilities and shift the ongoing war’s momentum onto Russian territory.

Speaking at the 29th Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) meeting, held virtually on Monday under the co-chairmanship of the United Kingdom and Germany, Shmyhal outlined plans to enhance Ukraine’s arsenal with advanced weaponry.

“This $6 billion will close our procurement gap, enabling us to produce more FPV drones to hold the front lines, interceptor drones to counter Russia’s Shahed attacks, and deep-strike weapons to bring the fight to Russian soil,” Shmyhal stated.

Ramstein format: A global coalition for Ukraine

The Ramstein format, initiated by the US Department of Defense in April 2022, continues to serve as the primary platform for coordinating international military aid to Ukraine following Russia’s full-scale invasion. Over 50 nations participate, with 52 countries attending the latest meeting, which launched a 50-day campaign to urgently arm Ukraine.

Shmyhal stressed the need for long-term financial commitments, urging partners to include funding for Ukraine in their 2026 budgets. “I call on our allies to allocate funds now to ensure Ukraine’s defense capabilities in the coming years,” he said.

A key focus of Shmyhal’s appeal was the immediate procurement of US-made Patriot air defence systems and PAC-3 missiles to bolster Ukraine’s air defenses against escalating Russian drone and missile attacks.

Ukrainian officials reported 300 Russian drone strikes in recent days, with analysts predicting continued long-range assaults on Ukrainian cities.

The US and Germany pledged to deliver five Patriot systems to Ukraine “as soon as possible,” with Germany reallocating two of its nine remaining systems, to be replaced by the US.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, speaking in London on 17 July, described delivery negotiations as “concrete,” estimating completion within “days or weeks.”

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed Germany’s commitment, stating, “Following discussions with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in Washington last week, we will expedite the delivery of these urgently needed Patriot systems and provide additional air defense systems and ammunition.”

The UK and Germany also announced a joint initiative to supply 220,000 rounds for Ukraine’s German-made Gepard anti-aircraft system and fund advanced drones for the battlefield.

Other nations stepped up with significant pledges. Canada promised $14.6 million to maintain Ukrainian tanks under the “Danish model” of defence support. Netherlands is committed to $218 million for interceptor drones and $136 million for maintenance and logistics for Ukraine’s forthcoming F-16 fleet. Norway promised $1.09 billion for a 2025 drone procurement program, including $436 million for Ukrainian-made drones. Sweden is also preparing a new package covering air defence, artillery, and vehicles.

Trump’s NATO plan and sanctions threat

UK Defense Secretary John Healey highlighted US President Donald Trump’s recent announcement of a “large-scale NATO weapons transfer” to Ukraine, emphasising rapid delivery to the battlefield. Healey affirmed, “The UK fully supports this policy and will play a key role in its success.”

Trump’s disillusionment with Putin prompts dramatic U-turn on Ukraine

This initiative and others bring together the three key decisions made by leaders at the NATO Summit in The Hague just a few weeks ago: increasing defence investment, ramping up defence production, and supporting Ukraine

Trump also set a 50-day deadline, ending 2 September for Russia to agree to a ceasefire or face “very severe” economic sanctions. Healey urged Ukraine Defence Contact Group members to align with this timeline to arm Ukraine and pressure Russia toward negotiations.

Shmyhal expressed deep gratitude to the coalition, particularly the US for founding the Ramstein format and the UK and Germany for their leadership. “Every country in this group is vital to Ukraine’s defence,” he said, underscoring the unity of the 52-nation coalition in countering Russia’s aggression.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Saturday that his officials have proposed a fresh round of peace talks to take place this week. Two previous rounds held in Istanbul failed to yield any meaningful progress on a ceasefire. The only agreements reached were for the large-scale exchanges of prisoners of war.

Russia and Ukraine gear up for direct talks: A hope for resolution or diplomatic theater?

Moscow responded that Russia is open to talks but that significant work remained before they could take place, as both sides remained “diametrically opposed.”

Many analysts remain skeptical about the likelihood of a significant breakthrough, even if the meeting occurs. As the 50-day campaign unfolds, the international community’s swift and decisive response will be crucial in supporting Ukraine and influencing the conflict’s trajectory.

Other sources: Euronews and Kyiv Independent

Caption: Newly elected Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal delivers a speech at the Ukrainian Parliament in Kyiv, Ukraine, 17 July 2025. The Ukrainian Parliament appointed Denys Shmyhal as the new defence minister following his resignation from the post of prime minister. EPA/ANDRII NESTERENKO