Shmyhal and Healey discuss strengthening defense capabilities of Ukraine and UK
According to Ukrinform, Shmyhal said this in a statement on Telegram.
The Ukrainian minister expressed gratitude for the friendship and cooperation between the two countries, emphasizing that the United Kingdom is a key partner and a true leader within the coalition of Ukraine’s allies.
Shmyhal identified Ukraine’s most urgent needs as ammunition, air defense systems, and long-range weaponry.
He also stressed the importance of long-term support for Ukraine to achieve lasting peace and to create conditions that would prevent Russia from resuming its aggression.
The two sides discussed mechanisms for security guarantees, particularly the role of the Coalition of the Willing. In this context, Shmyhal underscored that Ukraine is counting on strong contributions from partner countries to bolster its defense capabilities.
“In continuation of the agreements between the President of Ukraine and the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, we have coordinated our next steps to strengthen the defense capabilities of both countries. We are preparing important decisions in this direction,” 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 Ukrainian Defense Ministry’s Main Intelligence Directorate, briefed the British delegation on the battlefield situation and Russia’s plans.
According to Shmyhal, the enemy’s strategy to expand its military capabilities was examined in detail—“a challenge that Ukraine and its allies must respond to.”
The Ukrainian minister thanked his British counterpart for his personal leadership in supporting Ukraine and awarded him the Ministry of Defense’s “Cross of Honor” for his significant contribution to strengthening Ukraine’s defense.
He also expressed appreciation to the government and people of the United Kingdom for their steadfast support.
As previously reported by Ukrinform, Shmyhal met with Turkish Ambassador Mustafa Levent Bilgen to discuss UAV production.
