Kyiv: Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal on Monday announced that key allies have pledged new defense support for Ukraine during the 29th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG). The pledges include US-led initiatives to supply weapons through a NATO mechanism, along with additional European commitments for air defense and drones.

According to Anadolu Agency, Shmyhal highlighted in a post on X that the meeting delivered a 'clear message' of support for Ukraine from the international community, emphasizing peace and the strengthening of the Ukrainian army. He mentioned that the U.S.-NATO mechanism for supplying U.S. weapons to Ukraine will now receive co-funding from EU countries. Furthermore, Germany committed to participating in a joint initiative to send five Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine.

Germany also pledged to supply 200,000 Gepard ammunition rounds and financial support for Ukrainian long-range drone procurement. Canada offered C$20 million for tank maintenance and industrial support, following a Danish model.

Additional contributions included £200 million from the Netherlands for drone interceptors and £125 million for F-16 fighter jets. Norway committed to a £1 billion drone package for 2025 and £400 million toward Ukrainian drone production. Sweden is also preparing a new package that will cover air defense, artillery, and vehicles.

The meeting, hosted virtually by the UK and Germany, saw participation from 52 countries and organizations. Notable attendees included NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Supreme Allied Commander Europe Lt. Gen. David Grynkewich, and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas.

Shmyhal expressed gratitude to every country supporting Ukraine, highlighting the leadership roles of the US, UK, and Germany. The Ukraine Defense Contact Group was launched in 2022 by the US to coordinate international military assistance for Ukraine.