The United Kingdom has pledged $5.66 billion to support the prosecution of war crimes committed by Russia in Ukraine since February 2022. The British government announced that this new round of funding will enable Kyiv to document, investigate and hold accountable those responsible for Moscow’s atrocities in Ukraine.
The additional funding follows recent visits to Kyiv by U.K. officials, including Defence Secretary John Healey and Foreign Secretary David Lammy.
“While in Kyiv, I saw first-hand the inspirational bravery of the Ukrainian people,” commented Lammy. “I’m immensely proud of the support this government is providing them as they resist Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion.”
In September 2022, the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine identified evidence of war crimes committed by Russia. Among the violations noted by the commission are the illegal use of explosive weapons, indiscriminate attacks, torture and gender-based violence. The commission also reported violations of children’s rights.
Additionally, the British government announced a new Ukraine Permission Extension scheme, which will allow eligible visa holders to remain in the U.K. for an additional 18 months. The Home Office will begin accepting applications for visa extensions in February 2025.
Since 2022, the U.K. has provided sanctuary to over 300,000 Ukrainians. Refugees seeking asylum in the U.K. are entitled to work, claim benefits and access the National Health Service.
Beyond military assistance, the British government has committed $354.9 million for humanitarian aid, energy support, stabilization, reform and reconstruction programs in Ukraine. This funding will be distributed throughout 2024 and 2025.