Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer have engaged in talks (PA) - (PA Wire).Starmer and Zelensky Discuss Enhancing UK Military Training for Ukraine
Sir Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have agreed on the "importance of refining" the UK's military training for Ukrainian armed forces to further strengthen Ukraine’s capabilities on the battlefield, according to a statement from Number 10.
The two leaders spoke on Monday morning, agreeing that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine will have significant implications for NATO in the coming months.
In a readout of the call, Number 10 noted that President Zelensky highlighted the need for Ukraine to continue weakening Russian forces over the long term. Both leaders concurred that the outcome of the conflict in Ukraine will have critical consequences for Europe and NATO, and that it is essential for President Putin’s ambitions in Ukraine to fail.
Defence Secretary John Healey also commented on the pressure Ukraine is facing on the front lines, while noting signs of weakness in Putin's position.
The leaders discussed Operation Interflex, the UK-led training mission for Ukrainian recruits, and agreed that enhancing this training is crucial for strengthening Ukraine's defense efforts.
Speculation has arisen that the UK may consider sending troops to Ukraine to assist with training its armed forces. Last week, Defence Secretary Healey emphasized that this is a “critical period” for Ukraine and reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to increasing military support.
During a visit to Kyiv, Healey stated, “The UK is stepping up further the military help we’ll give, and also stepping up further the UK’s international leadership to co-ordinate allies and stand with Ukraine throughout 2025 and beyond.”
The call follows Sir Keir's recent participation in a Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) meeting, where he stressed that "Ukraine needs all the capability that it can get."
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