The UK has started delivering 105mm and 155mm artillery barrels to Ukraine under a contract worth £61 million (over $82 million). This was announced on Wednesday by the UK Ministry of Defence. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Sputnik Kazakhstan.
"The first batch of 150 artillery barrels produced in the UK has been delivered under a £61 million contract to strengthen Ukraine's defence capabilities," the defence ministry said in a statement.
The barrels for 105mm and 155mm artillery are produced by BAE Systems at its plant in Sheffield. The first four barrels have been delivered to Ukraine.
According to the UK Ministry of Defence, Kyiv will be able to set up its own production based on these barrels.
Russia believes that arms supplies to Ukraine hinder conflict resolution, directly involve NATO countries in the conflict, and constitute "playing with fire."
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that any cargo with weapons destined for Ukraine will become a legitimate target for Russia.