During a recent meeting in Kyiv, the defense ministers of Ukraine and the United Kingdom, Denys Shmyhal and John Healey, outlined the next steps to bolster the defense capabilities of both nations.
Shmyhal shared this information via Telegram.
The minister expressed gratitude for the strong friendship and collaboration, emphasizing that the United Kingdom is a key partner and a true leader in the coalition of Ukraine’s allies.
Among Ukraine's critical needs, Shmyhal highlighted the importance of ammunition, air defense systems, and long-range weaponry.
He also stressed the significance of long-term support for Ukraine to achieve lasting peace and to create conditions that would prevent Russia from resuming aggression.
The parties specifically discussed security guarantee mechanisms, including the role of the “Coalition of the Willing.” In this context, Shmyhal emphasized that Ukraine relies on strong contributions from partner countries to strengthen its defense capabilities.
“In continuation of the agreements made by the President of Ukraine and the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, we coordinated our next steps to enhance the defense capabilities of both nations,” Shmyhal noted.
Lieutenant General Andriy Hnatov, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense, presented current data on the battlefield situation and Russia's plans to the British side.
According to Shmyhal, they thoroughly examined the enemy's strategy for increasing military capabilities - a “challenge that Ukraine, together with its allies, must respond to.”
The defense minister thanked his British counterpart for personal leadership in supporting Ukraine and awarded him the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine’s “Cross of Honor” for his significant contribution to strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities.
He also expressed gratitude to the government and the people of the United Kingdom for their resolute support.
