President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has been promised billions of dollars in new military aid during a four-country tour of European allies. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of Britain pledged to provide a major package of air-defense missiles and attack drones, while Germany promised a nearly $3 billion package of weapons. France and Italy also made less concrete promises of additional weapons.
The show of support reflects a recognition that support for Ukraine in the United States is likely to come under pressure as the presidential election looms. Europe’s reinforcements make it highly likely that Ukrainian troops will soon strike back at Russian forces, setting off what could be one of the bloodiest stretches of the 15-month war.
Britain’s missiles and drones could be used to attack Russian bases in Crimea, while Germany’s commitment included 30 additional Leopard tanks, 20 armored fighting vehicles, 16 air-defense systems, more than 200 drones and a slew of other arms and ammunition.
The European pledges also reflect a growing confidence that Ukraine’s troops could make decisive breakthroughs with its counteroffensive, and increase Mr. Zelensky’s leverage in any negotiation with President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia.