Drone and long-range missile deliveries to Ukraine discussed at Ukraine Defence Contact Group meeting in Germany

A meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (also known as the Ramstein format) has begun in Germany, where participants are discussing increasing military assistance to Ukraine, particularly the supply of drones and long-range missiles.

Source: statements by German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius and UK Secretary of State for Defence John Healey at the opening of the Ramstein format meeting on 15 April, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Participants in the Ramstein meeting are discussing how to provide Ukraine with more drones and missiles.

"We know that Ukraine needs our help in one vital area above all others, and that is drones. Drones are defining the battlefield in this war, led by Minister Fedorov's excellent new battle plan, which we'll hear more about today," Healey said, announcing remarks by Ukrainian Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who is expected to present the results of implementing Ukraine's war plan since the previous Ramstein meeting on 12 February.

The UK defence secretary said representatives of 50 countries are taking part in the meeting.

Healey recalled that the UK will provide its largest-ever drone package for Ukraine this year – more than 120,000 UAVs.

"This will be backed by the £3 billion [about US$4.1 billion – ed.] of military support," he added.

Healey said the drones will range from long-range strike systems to surveillance platforms. Naval drones will also be supplied, "all battle-proven, contributing to Ukraine's ability to see off the Russian attack".

"We'll also be providing hundreds of thousands of artillery rounds, thousands of air defence missiles. Together, our aim with you is to help Ukraine defend its territory and strike back against Russia," Healey stressed.

Pistorius also said that Germany is increasing its contribution to strengthening Ukraine's air defence.

Quote from Pistorius: "Germany will deliver several hundred Patriot-GEMT-guided missiles for air defence as part of the Enduring Action on Air Defence initiative. Also, the RST air defence systems provided by Germany will complement it by the delivery of additional launchers."

Background:

• The Ukraine Defence Contact Group is meeting in Germany on 15 April. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte takes part in the meeting.
• US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is again expected to skip the Ramstein meeting.

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