British defense secretary emphasizes 'NATO first' strategy, commitment to Ukraine

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) – British Defense Secretary John Healey on Tuesday reaffirmed the UK's commitment to a "NATO first" defense strategy during his speech at the RUSI Land Warfare Conference 2024.

Healey emphasized the importance of international cooperation, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and Russia's “broader aggression.”

"Britain is always stronger when we work with others," Healey said, highlighting the necessity of collective defense efforts within NATO.

He cited the critical situation in Ukraine as a key driver of this strategy, claiming the continued threat posed by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

In a personal recount, Healey shared details about his recent visit to Odesa, where he held bilateral talks with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, participated in Ukraine’s Navy Day, and visited injured servicemen in a military hospital.

He commended the immense courage shown by the Ukrainian military and civilians in their fight against Russian forces.

"Despite the losses and the Ukrainian's fight, Russia is far from a spent force; and if Putin wins, he will not stop at Ukraine," he warned.

He stressed the urgency of the situation by announcing the acceleration of aid delivery pledged by the previous government, as well as the introduction of a new support package that includes ammunition, anti-armor missiles, demining vehicles, and artillery guns.

He also confirmed a commitment of £3 billion (about 3.87 billion) annually to Ukraine, a pledge that will continue "for as long as it takes."

Additionally, he highlighted a new Defense Industrial Support Treaty signed with Zelenskyy, which aims at leveraging export and investment finance to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities.

Addressing the broader strategic landscape, Healey launched a new Defense Review, led by former NATO Secretary General George Robertson. This review, described as the first of its kind in the UK, will assess current threats, necessary capabilities, the state of the armed forces, and available resources.

"My request is for the Army to play its fullest part in this review," Healey said, calling for active participation and innovative ideas. "This is a review that will be done with, not to defense. It’s a review that our troops want, our public deserves, and our country needs."

Looking ahead, Healey also announced the UK's leadership of NATO’s Special Operations Task Force starting in 2026.

"Big challenges, big responsibilities, big opportunities for the Army as part of One Defense and a stronger alliance for the future," he concluded.