British Defense Minister Discusses Military Instructors And Naval Support For Ukraine

British Defense Minister Grant Shapps on Sunday has proposed the possibility of sending military instructors to Ukraine to provide training for Kyiv's armed forces within the country.

This move aims to bolster Ukraine's capabilities in its ongoing conflict with Russia. Additionally, Shapps has encouraged British defense companies to establish production facilities in Ukraine, signaling a commitment to expanding support.

In his efforts to enhance cooperation with Ukraine, Shapps has engaged in discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

One aspect of these talks involved the Royal Navy potentially assisting in the defense of commercial vessels navigating the Black Sea, where Russian forces have targeted cargo ships.

Shapps emphasized the importance of ensuring international shipping continues unimpeded in these waters.

Britain is a naval nation so we can help and we can advise, particularly since the water is international water," he said.

"It’s important we don’t allow a situation to establish by default that somehow international shipping isn’t allowed in that water.

"There’s a lot of places where Britain can help advise."

Shapps has expressed the desire to bring training initiatives closer to Ukraine, particularly in its western region. This move signifies a shift from traditional training programs conducted outside of Ukraine, with the aim of optimizing the training process.