UK, Ukraine sign defence deal

The UK and Ukraine have signed a new 15-year defence agreement, the UK government announced on 18 March. The agreement includes cooperation in the field of military equipment, training of Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF), participation in joint exercises and the sharing of information on potential threats.

Additionally, through its ‘train the trainer’ activities, the UK will look to expand its training support to the country. The UK has trained 2,000 UAF members in the past year in urban operations, medical care, operational planning, logistics and countering IEDs. The UK has also gifted more than £1 million in equipment to Ukraine.

Michael Fallon, UK Defence Secretary, said: ‘The UK will stand firm with the Ukraine as they defend their territorial integrity. This new defence agreement sets out that commitment as we enhance our training of UAF.'

Penny Mordaunt, Minister for armed forces, the UK, said: ‘It was a great honour for me to sign the MOU on defence cooperation with Ukraine, which provides the framework for future cooperation, reiterating our support to them.

‘Meeting the UK armed forces personnel training UAF troops also reiterates the positive contribution Britain’s military makes in the world. We continue to stand side by side with Ukraine through this difficult period.’