New Zealand continues its anti-Russia stand, extends military support to Ukraine till 2026

New Zealand has announced an extension of its military assistance to Ukraine, committing support through December 2026. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced in London on April 22, 2025, that the decision includes the continued deployment of up to 100 New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel to train Ukrainian soldiers in the UK and Europe. The force will also provide intelligence, liaison, and logistics support to Ukraine.

"New Zealand is unwavering in its support for Ukraine against Russia's illegal and unprovoked invasion," he said.

This move brings New Zealand's total contribution to Ukraine to $152 million, encompassing military training, equipment, humanitarian aid, and support for international legal processes.

NZDF personnel have been involved in training over 53,000 Ukrainian Armed Forces personnel, focusing on areas such as combat casualty care, combat engineering, leadership, and maritime explosive ordnance disposal.

Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters emphasized New Zealand's commitment to supporting Ukraine's self-defense and its involvement in discussions on potential peace support if the conflict concludes.

"New Zealand welcomes efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace, and is following the negotiations on a potential ceasefire very closely. New Zealand is also actively involved in the UK-led discussions on options for peace support if the conflict concludes."

Defence Minister Judith Collins highlighted the value of NZDF's deployment, noting the skilled contribution of New Zealand personnel in training Ukrainian forces.

"This deployment is a visible and highly valued use of our skilled personnel," she said.

The announcement coincided with Prime Minister Luxon's meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, where both leaders observed joint military training for Ukrainian forces and discussed enhancing defense cooperation.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, New Zealand has pledged a total of $102.3 million toward military support, including training, equipment, and the deployment of NZDF personnel to Europe. In addition, $31.9 million has been committed to humanitarian assistance for conflict-affected Ukrainian communities, along with $5.2 million to support international legal processes and human rights monitoring.

In 2024 alone, two funding packages totaling $41.9 million were announced, covering extended NZDF deployments, new sanctions under the Russia Sanctions Act, and further contributions to both military aid and humanitarian relief.

New Zealand's extended commitment reflects its ongoing support for Ukraine amid the conflict with Russia, aligning with international efforts to provide military and humanitarian assistance.