President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Gant. The topics of the talks included sanctions against Russia, according to the Presidential Office.
Jeremy Hunt arrived on a visit to Kyiv. During the meeting, the head of state thanked the UK for helping Ukraine from the first days of the Russian invasion, as well as for the largest defense aid package worth half a billion pounds, which was announced the day before.
Zelenskyy also notes the UK's decision to increase defense spending to 2.5% of GDP.
“Thank you for this step, for the decision that will not only contribute to further assistance to Ukraine but also reinforce European security. It is highly important. It would be great if other European countries also increased their defense spending. It would significantly strengthen the defense capability of Europe against possible challenges,” the President notes.
The parties paid special attention to the sanctions policy. Zelenskyy and Hunt discussed expanding sanctions against Russia and closing loopholes to circumvent restrictions.
Photo: Zelenskyy meets with the Chancellor of the Exchequer (president.gov.ua)
Photo: Zelenskyy meets with the Chancellor of the Exchequer (president.gov.ua)
UK assistance to Ukraine
The UK was one of the first countries to condemn Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Even though the UK is not a member of the EU, the country has imposed and continues to impose sanctions against Russia.
In addition, the UK has provided Ukraine with military, financial, and humanitarian aid. Ukraine received tanks, heavy equipment, and long-range missiles from London. The UK also provides training for the Ukrainian military.
According to media reports, the UK may provide Ukraine with Paveway IV bombs as part of the next military aid package.
