Tag: Ukraine

UK and Ukraine to sign ‘landmark 100 Year Partnership’

The UK and Ukraine will sign a historic partnership, as the Prime Minister travels to the country to meet President Zelenskyy

  • Treaty will bolster military collaboration on maritime security through a new framework to strengthen Baltic Sea, Black Sea, and Azov Sea security and deter ongoing Russian aggression
  • Will bring together experts to advance scientific and technology partnerships, in areas such as healthcare and disease, agri-tech, space and drones, and build lifelong friendships through classroom projects
  • New UK-built Grain Verification Scheme will also be launched to track stolen grain from occupied Ukrainian territories

The UK and Ukraine will sign a historic partnership, as the Prime Minister travels to the country to meet President Zelenskyy.

The unbreakable bonds between the UK and Ukraine will be formalised through the landmark new 100 Year Partnership between the two countries, broadening and deepening the relationship across defence and non-military areas and enabling closer community links.

From working together on the world stage to breaking down barriers to trade and growth and nurturing cultural links, the mutually beneficial partnership will see the UK and Ukraine advocate for each other to renew, rebuild and reform for generations to come.

The partnership underpins the Prime Minister’s steadfast leadership on Ukraine as his government continues to provide support. Spanning nine key pillars, it will harness the innovation, strength and resilience that Ukraine has shown in its defence against Russia’s illegal and barbaric invasion; and foster it to support long-term security and growth for both our countries. The Treaty and political declaration, which form the 100 Year Partnership, will be laid in Parliament in the coming weeks.

It is expected to bolster military collaboration on maritime security through a new framework to strengthen Baltic Sea, Black Sea, and Azov Sea security and deter ongoing Russian aggression, bring together experts to advance scientific and technology partnerships, in areas such as healthcare and disease, agri-tech, space and drones, and build lifelong friendships through classroom projects.

It also cements the UK as a preferred partner for Ukraine’s energy sector, critical minerals strategy and green steel production.

The 100 Year Partnership is a major step in supporting Ukraine’s long-term security – ensuring they are never again vulnerable to the kind of brutality inflicted on it by Russia – and committing to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with a sovereign Ukraine for the next century.

Ukraine has a highly trained military, and a thriving technology sector that is rapidly designing and deploying state of the art battle-ready equipment: a security partnership with Ukraine will make Britain stronger. 

To mark the signing of the partnership today, the Prime Minister is expected to announce new UK support for Ukraine from lethal aid to economic resilience.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “Putin’s ambition to wrench Ukraine away from its closest partners has been a monumental strategic failure. Instead, we are closer than ever, and this partnership will take that friendship to the next level.

“This is not just about the here and now, it is also about an investment in our two countries for the next century, bringing together technology development, scientific advances and cultural exchanges, and harnessing the phenomenal innovation shown by Ukraine in recent years for generations to come.

“The power of our long-term friendships cannot be underestimated. Supporting Ukraine to defend itself from Russia’s barbaric invasion and rebuild a prosperous, sovereign future, is vital to this government’s foundation of security and our Plan for Change.

“Through this partnership, we are creating a strong economy that works for the British people, a safe country that protects our interests at home and abroad, and a prosperous society.”

The Prime Minister will join a Ukrainian class dialling into a primary school in Liverpool today, who will be joined by the Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson. He will hear from the next generation about how the partnership will deliver brighter futures for children in both countries, fostering cultural exchanges and learning for youngsters.

100 schools in the UK and Ukraine will be partnered over the coming months as part of a two-way programme built around reading for pleasure. Through sharing stories from their own cultures, they will explore the power of reading to overcome adversity – building links between the countries for generations to come.

The Prime Minister is also expected to see firsthand how UK aid is supporting Ukrainians living under bombardment through a visit to a Ukrainian hospital. He will meet patients and doctors and hear how £100m of UK humanitarian funding is supporting needs across Ukraine and specialist medical care for burn victims, including those maimed by Russian missiles raining down on neighbourhoods.

The hospital is being supported by specialist NHS doctors, who are upskilling Ukrainian medical teams and providing lifesaving opinions on treatment for severely injured patients, both virtually and through short deployments to the country. Many admitted to the hospital have burns to between 30% and 40% of their body surface.

The Prime Minister will also announce £40m for a new economic recovery programme to unlock hundreds of millions of pounds worth of private lending to bolster the growth and economic resilience of small and medium businesses in Ukraine, which form the backbone of the country’s economy.

The programme will create opportunities for UK companies by supporting key growth sectors in Ukraine, opening up enhanced trade and investment opportunities with one of our closest allies. The funding will be targeted at businesses supporting the green economy, and marginalised groups including women and veterans.

It is hoped over the long term, the programme, called TIGER (Triggering Investment Growth and Economic Resilience), will reduce reliance in Ukrainian communities on humanitarian support and help build economic resilience.

And as part of the partnership, a new Grain Verification Scheme will also be launched to track stolen grain from occupied Ukrainian territories. The UK developed the new scheme following an ask from Ukraine to the G7 to help trace snatched grain from Ukraine fields under Russian control, which is then relabelled and sold on.

Using cutting edge science to help determine where grain has been grown and harvested, the UK has developed a database to support Ukraine’s efforts to trace and stop theft of grain from occupied regions.

Ukraine, a country which remains a major supplier of agricultural produce, is crucial for global food security. The database will be handed over to Ukraine from the Environment Secretary in the coming weeks.

Today’s announcement builds on the £12.8 billion package of support the UK has given Ukraine, including £7.8bn of military assistance, a commitment for £3bn in military aid until as long as it takes, and ongoing energy infrastructure support to help hospitals and community facilities provide light and warmth to innocent civilians impacted by Putin’s invasion.

The UK and Ukraine will use an annual high-level Strategic Dialogue to ensure progress on the partnership for decades to come.

British troops to lead major NATO exercise in Eastern Europe

Sabre-rattling? Thousands of UK personnel will continue to deploy to Europe in the next two months to spearhead a major NATO exercise

  • UK leading contribution with over 2600 personnel and 730 vehicles deploying to NATO’s eastern flank.
  • First deployment under new NATO Allied Reaction Force.
  • Deployment demonstrates UK’s ‘unshakeable commitment’ to NATO and European Security.

Thousands of UK personnel will continue to deploy to Europe in the next two months to spearhead a major NATO exercise.  

Leading from the front, the UK is providing the largest contribution of forces with over 2600 personnel, and 730 vehicles deploying to NATO’s eastern flank.  

Throughout January and February 2025, NATO will conduct Exercise Steadfast Dart 25 to practice the deployment of the new Allied Reaction Force, which can rapidly reinforce NATO’s eastern flank. These important exercises will showcase the Alliance’s readiness, capability, and commitment to defend every inch of NATO territory.   

The UK’s 1st Division will be in command of all of NATO’s land forces in the exercise, continuing Britain’s proud tradition of leadership in NATO and demonstrating this government’s unshakeable commitment to the Alliance.  

The exercises will see the UK Armed Forces join thousands of personnel from ten NATO Allies, operating across Romania and Bulgaria coinciding with the anniversary of Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine. 

Minister for the Armed Forces, Luke Pollard MP, said: “This Government wants the UK to be NATO’s leading European nation. 

“Exercise Steadfast Dart demonstrates our unshakeable commitment to NATO and highlights the UK key leadership role in the Alliance.  

“As we approach the three-year anniversary of Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine, we must continue to strengthen our collective defences together to deter Putin effectively.”

Keeping the country safe is the Government’s first priority, and an integral part of its Plan for Change. The work of the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force, is critical to the security and stability of the UK, supporting all of the Government’s five missions in its plan. 

This exercise will help to improve co-ordination and cooperation between NATO Allies, particularly in the early phases of deployment. The ability of NATO to rapidly deploy is reliant on nations being able to seamlessly operate alongside each other.  

Having a high-readiness forces that can operate across land, air, and sea to respond to emerging threats is a critical component of NATO’s defensive plans.

The new Allied Reaction Force will not only support the Alliance’s defence in times of crisis but strengthen deterrence against our adversaries – including Russia. 

It will ensure that forces from across the NATO alliance can come together at shorter notice that has ever been possible before.  

730 vehicles including Foxhound and Jackals will deploy by road, air, and sea to Eastern Europe where they will conduct two exercises before returning to the UK at the end of February.

Safe Haven: Rescued lionesses arrive at Five Sisters Zoo from Ukraine

Late on Wednesday night, Luna and Plusza, two four-year-old lionesses rescued from conflict zones in Ukraine, safely arrived at their new home at Five Sisters Zoo.

For nearly a decade, Five Sisters Zoo has led lion rescue efforts in Scotland, providing sanctuary and care for lions who have endured immense hardship. The arrival of Luna and Plusza marks a significant new chapter in the zoo’s proud history of animal welfare and rehabilitation.

The lionesses were initially evacuated from an area affected by heavy shelling in Eastern Ukraine in 2022, moving through Kyiv, Poland, and Belgium before reaching the safety of Five Sisters Zoo. Their new purpose-built habitat offers the space and peace they need to recover and thrive after their challenging journey.

Gary Curran, Head of Carnivores at Five Sisters Zoo, said: “The safe arrival of Luna and Plusza underscores our commitment to giving lions a second chance at life.

“Our team is ready to provide the care and support they need to live out their lives in peace, just as we have done for others before them.“

This rescue continues the legacy started in October 2015, when the zoo welcomed four lions from a life of suffering in a traveling circus. Of the original pride, only Skinny remains today, as the zoo honours the memory of Boss, Twin 1, and Twin 2, while forging ahead with new rescue efforts.

Five Sisters Zoo remains committed to animal welfare, collaborating with international rescue organisations to offer sanctuary to animals in need. The public is invited to visit the zoo and learn more about its conservation initiatives.

For updates on Luna and Plusza and information on how to support Five Sisters Zoo’s rescue efforts, visit www.fivesisterszoo.co.uk.

UK strengthens national security and bolsters Ukraine’s war chest with £2.26bn military loan

  • UK announces £2.26bn loan to Ukraine backed by profits from sanctioned Russian sovereign assets
  • Forms Britain’s contribution to the $50bn loan announced at the G7 Leaders’ Summit in June
  • New money for Ukraine will bolster equipment on the frontline

Ukraine will receive further funding to purchase essential military equipment to defend itself against Russia’s illegal invasion, as the Chancellor today announces that the Government will loan a further £2.26bn in new money to Ukraine.

The new £2.26bn is the UK’s contribution to the G7 Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration (ERA) Loans to Ukraine scheme, in which $50bn from G7 countries will be delivered to Ukraine for its military, budget and reconstruction needs. The loan will be repaid using the extraordinary profits on immobilised Russian sovereign assets.

The Chancellor Rachel Reeves made the announcement alongside Defence Secretary John Healey while visiting Ukrainian personnel who are being trained in the UK. More than 45,000 personnel have been trained in the UK under Operation INTERFLEX and the scheme has been extended to at least the end of 2025.

The UK’s £2.26bn loan is earmarked as budgetary support for Ukraine’s military spending, enabling the Ukrainians to invest in key equipment to support their efforts against Russia, such as air defence, artillery and wider equipment support. It comes on top of the UK’s existing £3bn a year military aid for Ukraine, which the Prime Minister re-committed to within his first week in office.

The UK has sent around 400 different capabilities to Ukraine, with Defence Secretary John Healey MP recently announcing that the UK will supply 650 Lightweight Multirole Missile systems to Ukraine to boost the country’s air defences.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves: “Our support for Ukraine and her men and women in their fight for freedom from Putin’s aggression is unwavering and will remain so for as long as it takes.

“This new money is in Britain’s national interest because the frontline of our defence – the defence of our democracy and shared values – is in the Ukrainian trenches. A safe and secure Ukraine is a safe and secure United Kingdom.”

The $50bn G7 ERA scheme was first announced at the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Apulia, Italy, in June this year. Russia’s obligation under international law to pay for the damage it has caused to Ukraine is clear and this G7 agreement is an important step to ensuring this happens.

Today the UK has announced its contribution to the scheme and will introduce domestic legislation in the coming weeks to enable the transfer of the new funds to Ukraine as quickly as possible.

The loan is on top of the £12.8bn already committed in military, economic and humanitarian support to Ukraine.

The funding comes alongside the UK and international partners introducing the largest and most severe package of sanctions ever imposed on a major economy. Without this, Russia would have over $400 billion more for its war machine – enough to fund its illegal invasion for a further four years.

The war is having an economic and human cost for Russia; it is soaking up 40% of Russia’s annual budget and last month the country suffered its highest rate of daily casualties since the war began.

The loan announcement comes ahead of the Chancellor’s attendance of the International Monetary Fund Annual Meetings in Washington D.C. later this week, at which she will underline on the international stage that the UK and its partners stand united and will not let aggressors like Putin succeed.

Earlier this month Prime Minister Keir Starmer hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Downing Street to discuss his victory plan for Ukraine.

Defence Secretary John Healey, said: “By using the money generated from these sanctioned Russian assets, we can help turn the tables on Putin’s war machine. This urgent funding will directly support Ukraine’s defence using the proceeds from assets that had helped fuel Putin’s aggression.

“The UK is stepping up our support to Ukraine, speeding up supplies of vital equipment and boosting our defence industries. We will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.”

Men in suits: World leaders discuss Middle East and Ukraine crises

The Prime Minister met President Emmanuel Macron of France, Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany and President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. of the United States yesterday in Berlin.

The leaders condemned Russia’s continued war of aggression against Ukraine, discussed their plans to provide Ukraine with additional security, economic, and humanitarian assistance, including leveraging the extraordinary revenues of immobilized Russian sovereign assets – as decided at the G7 Summit, discussed President Zelenskyy’s Victory Plan, and reiterated their resolve to continue supporting Ukraine in its efforts to secure a just and lasting peace, based on international law, including the United Nations Charter, and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The leaders also discussed events in the Middle East, in particular the implications of the death of Yahya Sinwar, who bears responsibility for the bloodshed of the October 7th terrorist attack, for the immediate necessity to bring the hostages home to their families, for ending the war in Gaza, and ensure humanitarian aid reaches civilians.

The leaders also reiterated their condemnation of Iran’s escalatory attack on Israel and coordinated on efforts to hold Iran accountable and prevent further escalation. They discussed the situation in Lebanon and agreed on the need to work towards full implementation of UNSCR 1701 and a diplomatic resolution that allows civilians on both sides of the Blue Line to return safely home.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s speech in Berlin:

I’ve just had a very productive meeting with President Biden, Chancellor Scholz, and President Macron. 

We focused on two issues.

Firstly, the situation in the Middle East.

Let me start by saying that no one should mourn the death of the Hamas Leader Sinwar.

On his hands is the blood of innocent Israelis.

Killed on the 7th of October and over years of terror.

And also the blood of the Palestinian people.

Who suffered in the chaos and violence that he sought and celebrated.

We continue to support Israel’s right to self-defence.

Particularly in the face of the attacks by the Iranian regime. 

Allies will keep working together.

To de-escalate across the region. 

Because we know there is no military-only solution here.

The answer is diplomacy.

And now we must make the most of this moment. 

What is needed now is a ceasefire in Gaza.

The immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

Immediate access for humanitarian aid.

And a return to the path towards the two-state solution.

As the only way to deliver long-term peace and security. 

The dire humanitarian situation cannot continue. 

And I say once again to Israel, the world will not tolerate any more excuses on humanitarian assistance. 

Civilians in northern Gaza need food, now.

The UK strongly supports UNRWA in the vital work it does in Gaza, across the OPTs and the region.

UNRWA must be allowed to continue its life saving support.

The suffering must end, including in Lebanon, where we need a ceasefire to implement a political plan based on UN resolution 1701.

That empowers the Lebanese Armed Forces.

Strengthens UNIFIL.

And allows communities on both sides of the border to return to their homes.

That delivers humanitarian and economic support to the people of Lebanon.

Supports democracy and bolsters the Lebanese State.

Second, we discussed the war in Ukraine.

Building on the conversation I had with President Zelenskyy at Downing Street last week. 

We remain united in our support for Ukraine.

We have always said that it is for the Ukrainian people to decide their own future.

So we’re clear, together with President Zelenskyy, that the only acceptable outcome is a sovereign Ukraine, and a just peace. 

We want to see Ukraine thriving and secure.

And we’ll work together to make it happen. 

And while the situation is incredibly tough.

It’s also true that Russia is getting weaker.

This war is soaking up 40% of their budget. 

Last month Russia suffered the highest daily casualty rate so far.

So we discussed how to speed up our support for Ukraine.  

And the UK is delivering. 

95% of the equipment that we promised to fast track in July is now in Ukrainian hands.

And together with the G7 we’re working to send $50 billion of further support to Ukraine.

Drawn from the proceeds of frozen Russian assets. 

So as Ukraine enters a difficult winter it’s important to say.

We’re with you.

We’re absolutely united in our resolve.

And we’ll back Ukraine for as long as it takes.

Medical equipment for Ukraine

£800,000 donation of surplus supplies

Medical equipment and supplies will be sent from Scotland to Ukraine.

The shipment of over 500 items includes oxygen concentrators, electric height-adjustable beds with replacement batteries and mattresses, and ICU ventilators identified by NHS Scotland as surplus to operational requirements

The donation will not impact on services to patients using the healthcare services in Scotland.

It brings the total value of medical supplies donated from Scotland to Ukraine to £3.8 million.

First Minister John Swinney confirmed the latest donation during a meeting with the Ukrainian Ambassador to the UK General Valerii Zaluzhnyi in London. It follows a request from the Ukrainian Consulate in Edinburgh in May 2024 to contribute medical equipment on a humanitarian basis.

The First Minister said: “The people of Ukraine are suffering as a consequence of the illegal invasion of their country, and it is vital we do all we can to support them.

“These supplies, identified by NHS Scotland as being surplus to requirements, will provide direct humanitarian support to Ukraine at a critical time.

“Scotland stands in solidarity with Ukraine and offers unqualified support for its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

Ambassador of Ukraine to the United Kingdom General Valerii Zaluzhnyi said: “The act of generosity and solidarity demonstrated by NHS Scotland in extending a helping hand to Ukraine in its time of need exemplifies the true spirit of humanity and compassion.

“It serves as a powerful reminder that, in the face of adversity, solidarity and cooperation can transcend borders and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in war. The Ukrainian people are deeply grateful for the support and assistance provided by NHS Scotland, knowing that these supplies will make a difference between life and death for many.

“The bonds of friendship and solidarity forged through this act of kindness will not be forgotten and will serve as a beacon of hope for a brighter future beyond the shadows of Russia’s war against Ukraine.”

UK to provide £162 million package of air defence missiles for Ukraine

DEFENCE SECRETARY MEETS INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS

The UK will supply 650 Lightweight Multirole Missile (LMM) systems to Ukraine to boost the country’s air defence capabilities, as part of the new government’s commitment to Ukraine. 

The air defence package will be announced by Defence Secretary John Healey MP today at the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) meeting at US Air Force Base in Ramstein – his first as Defence Secretary. At the 24th meeting of the group, the Defence Secretary will set out the UK’s ironclad commitment to Ukraine and urge allies to continue to supply Ukraine with vital equipment.

It comes following a bilateral meeting between John Healey and his Ukrainian counterpart Rustem Umerov in London earlier this week, where the pair discussed how the UK will continue to ramp-up support over the coming months. At that meeting, the Defence Secretary confirmed that £300 million worth of artillery ammunition will start to be delivered by the end of this year to support Ukraine’s war effort.

In keeping with the new government’s commitment to speed up deliveries of aid, the first batch of LMM missiles announced today are also expected to be delivered by the end of this year. 

Today’s package is part of the UK’s work to help step up UK and European defence production – with today’s £162 million order helping to energise the supply chain for the future.  Built by Thales at their Belfast factory, the missiles are highly versatile and can be fired from a variety of platforms on land, sea, and air.   

The package is primarily funded through the UK’s £3 billion a year financial package for Ukraine, and contributions from Norway through the International Fund for Ukraine (IFU) and follows the Prime Minister and Defence Secretary’s commitment to stand by Ukraine will continue for as long as it takes.   

It comes after the Defence Secretary signed a new Defence Export Support Treaty with his counterpart Umerov in July, during President Zelesnkyy’s visit to Downing Street. The agreement will fire up both the UK’s and Ukraine’s defence industrial bases and increase military hardware and weaponry production. The treaty will enable Ukraine to draw on £3.5 billion of export finance to support its war effort. 

Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said: “This new commitment will give an important boost to Ukraine’s air defences and demonstrates our new government’s commitment to stepping up support for Ukraine. 

“In recent days we have seen the tragic cost of Russia’s indiscriminate strikes on Poltava and Lviv. These new UK-made missiles will support Ukraine to defend its people, infrastructure, and territory from Putin’s brutal attacks.

“With our international partners today, we will show that we are united for Ukraine. And we will discuss how best we can work together to improve support. Because the security of the UK and Europe starts in Ukraine.”

Ahead of the meeting with international partners, the Defence Secretary visited the Joint Intelligence Coordination Centre (JICC) at the Ramstein Air Base. UK Armed Forces personnel deployed at the JICC work alongside allies to analyse intelligence.  

Since Russia’s illegal invasion, the UK has provided hundreds of LMM missiles to Ukraine for air defence, destroying hundreds of Russian drones and other air threats.  

Travelling at Mach 1.5 with a range of more than 6km, the LMM is highly versatile against a wide range of threats, including Armoured Personnel Carriers, fast in-shore attack craft and Unmanned drones.  

This contract with Thales in the UK will further prime the world leading British defence industry to increase production rates, enabling future production to be ramped up.  

Addressing allies at the UCDG, the Defence Secretary will reiterate the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine and ramping up the production and delivery of vital equipment.   

A Thales spokesperson said: “As a strategic partner of UK Government, Thales is proud to be working with MoD to support defending democracy in Ukraine through the provision of our Lightweight Multi-role Missile, delivered from our Belfast site.  

“Since the start of the conflict in Ukraine, UK MoD and Thales have worked in close collaboration to support the Ukrainian effort by delivering key air defence systems at pace. We are pleased that this contract is the first to be signed under Task Force Hirst, which has been established to deliver a deeper defence industrial partnership between the UK and Ukraine.

“Earlier this week, the Government confirmed a milestone moment in international support for Ukraine, with eight countries from across the world having now joined the UK to provide more than £1 billion to the International Fund for Ukraine (IFU), in a significant show of unity from Ukraine’s allies.”

The IFU was first launched by the UK and Denmark in 2022 to provide an efficient way for countries to pool resources to buy equipment and weapons to support Ukraine’s most urgent capability needs. The UK has donated £500 million to the Fund to date.  

This is also the first contract approved under Task Force Hirst, a MOD initiative created to ramp up defence industrial capacity and capability, laying the foundation for larger sustained supply of missiles and other key capabilities to Ukraine and, in the longer term, enable industrial cooperation between our two countries.

Westminster display honours 487 Ukrainian athletes killed during Russian invasion

  • A powerful display honouring the Ukrainian athletes who have been killed since Russia’s full-scale invasion has been unveiled today in Parliament Square.   
  • More than 487 Ukrainian athletes have been killed, with the lives of former and aspiring Olympians, as well as the next generation of sporting talent, cut short. 
  • Display comes ahead of the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games later this week. 

Ahead of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, a display has been unveiled in Parliament Square to honour the lives lost from within the Ukrainian sporting community and to highlight the devastating consequences of the war in Ukraine. 

Since Russia’s barbaric full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the conflict has claimed the lives of thousands of innocent Ukrainians, including 487 athletes. More than 4,000 athletes are still actively supporting the war effort. 

Unveiled today in Parliament Square, the new 3D display brings to life the harrowing ‘487’ figure – though the true number is likely to be even higher. Surrounding the display, sporting equipment representing the disciplines of some of the 487 fallen athletes offers a stark reminder of the war’s devastating toll.  

With only 140 athletes from Ukraine competing at this year’s Olympic Games in Paris, this marks the smallest representation ever in Ukraine’s summer Olympic history.  

Among the athletes killed by Russian forces are Oleksandr Pielieshenko, who competed in weightlifting at the Rio 2016 Olympics and died defending his country in May this year.

Other casualties include promising young athletes like 11-year-old rhythmic gymnast Kateryna Diachenko, whose life was cut short by a Russian attack on her hometown of Mariupol at the onset of the war on 12 March 2022. 

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said: “As the world gathers this summer to celebrate the very best of sporting talent, we must pause to remember the hundreds of Ukrainian athletes who are no longer with us or can no longer take part due to the war.  

“We are drawing attention to the harrowing real life stories behind the 487 statistic to pay tribute to the fallen athletes as a timely reminder of this government’s iron-clad support for Ukraine and its people. We must support Ukraine’s fight for freedom.   

“The defence of Europe begins in Ukraine and the outcome is down to our collective will. Now is the time to double down on our support so Ukraine not only wins the war, but can forge the bright and ambitious future that Ukrainians deserve.”

Heorhii Tykhyi, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, said: “Every Ukrainian athlete at the Olympics represents the Ukrainian will to win, Volia. By acting swiftly and with united efforts, the prospect of a world where Ukrainian athletes and citizens are free from the threats posed by Russia will be a reality.“

“The display comes just days after the Prime Minister hosted President Zelenskyy at Downing Street last week after the European Political Community summit. President Zelenskyy also met the Defence and Business Secretaries where they discussed the need for more cooperation and the need to boost industrial production for Ukraine.   

The UK’s commitment to support Ukraine to resist Russian aggression is iron-clad. The Prime Minister announced his commitment to £3 billion a year of military support for Ukraine for as long as it takes. In total, the UK has committed almost £12.7bn in military, humanitarian, and economic support for Ukraine since February 2022.   

Current and former Olympic athletes and coaches worldwide have also united in solidarity with Ukraine in light of the 487 figure, sharing their hopes for Ukraine to receive the support it needs to win. 

This includes Sasha Cohen, former Ukrainian-American Olympic figure skater, Oksana Masters, Ukrainian-American Paralympic athlete, German Biathlete Jens Steinigen and coach Wolfgang Pichler, and former Ukrainian Olympic wrestler Oksana Rakhra.    

Sasha Cohen, former Ukrainian-American figure skater, said:  “I’ve always believed in the power of sport to unite and inspire. But today, I’m not just speaking as an athlete.

“I’m speaking as the daughter of a Ukrainian immigrant, my mother, Galina. I’ve grown up with stories of Ukraine, our culture, our people, and their resilience.

“Today, I stand in awe of the Ukrainian athletes participating in the Olympics and think of those who we are missing and have been lost to the war.

“Their courage, strength and determination embodies the spirit of my mother’s homeland and I stand with them in solidarity. Together, we can show the world the power of unity in sport.”

Russia’s attack on Ukraine children’s hospital ‘a depraved act of violence’

Statement by UK Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine

“I would like to start by thanking Under Secretary-General Msuya and Doctor Zhovnir for their briefings. And I welcome the participation of Ukraine, Poland and the EU in our meeting today.

“I offer the UK government’s deepest condolences to Doctor Zhovnir and the victims of Russia’s latest appalling airstrikes across Ukraine, and to their families and their loved ones. 

“Since 23rd February 2022, in repeated attacks on Ukraine, Russia has killed Ukrainian children. Russia has maimed and injured Ukrainian children. Russia has abducted Ukrainian children. And yesterday, Russia came back for wounded and sick children in Okhmatdyt hospital. This is cowardly depravity. And this must stop.

https://twitter.com/i/status/1810710320932958211

“I visited Okhmatdyt Hospital last December. It has become a refuge for children injured in attacks across Ukraine.

“I saw for myself the dedication of Doctor Zhovnir and his staff and the care they provide. I met two young girls, among many, who were resolutely learning to walk again with prosthetics.

“One had been injured in Russia’s attack on Kharkiv, the other in Russia’s attack against Kramatorsk railway station. Colleagues, intentionally directing attacks against civilians and civilian objects constitutes war crimes. The ICC has already issued arrest warrants for the Russian President, former Defence Minister, the Chief of the General Staff and the Commissioner for Children’s Rights for suspected war crimes. 

“Since 23rd February 2022, Russia has violated the UN Charter and repeatedly breached international humanitarian law. Its conduct is a disgrace to the Security Council and especially to the President’s seat. Colleagues, we must join together to condemn Russia’s actions and stand foursquare behind the UN Charter and its guarantees of sovereignty and territorial integrity, and behind international law and international humanitarian law. 

“For our part, the UK, together with our partners, will continue to ensure Ukraine is able to defend itself from these barbaric acts of violence. As confirmed by my Defence Secretary this weekend in Odessa, where he announced new military aid for Ukraine’s defence.

“At the NATO summit this week, we will demonstrate our resolve to support Ukraine for as long as it takes. We will also work to ensure accountability and justice for the Ukrainian people. And we will support Ukraine to secure a just and lasting peace in line with the UN Charter. 

“I want to commend the exceptional resilience of the Ukrainian people, and in particular, to pay tribute to the Ukrainian emergency services, especially over the last 48 hours.

“I also express my admiration for the doctors and other hospital workers at Okhmatdyt and for their patience.

“In conclusion, I call on Russia again to end its aggression against Ukraine and immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all its forces from Ukraine’s internationally recognised borders and stop killing Ukrainian children.”

Widespread international condemnation – quite rightly – then, but meanwhile in Gaza schools and refugee camps are being attacked by daily missile strikes … what’s the difference? – Ed.

Surgeons train for conflict zone aid in landmark course

Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh & David Nott Foundation collaborate to address critical shortage of skilled surgical care in disaster zones

The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd), in partnership with the David Nott Foundation (DNF), has launched an intensive training course designed to equip surgeons with the vital skills needed to save lives in conflict and disaster zones.

Aimed at medical professionals who work in, or are planning to travel to, conflict and catastrophe zones around the world, the first course was held on June 3-7 at RCSEd’s Skills Lab in Edinburgh, with a second scheduled for December 2024.

The Hostile Environment Surgical Training UK (HEST-UK) course brought together UK-based surgeons and those from war-torn regions, including six participants from Ukraine and one from Libya, for a transformative week of intensive training.

The course – which equips surgeons to surgically treat a wide range of traumatic injuries, from head wounds to blast wounds – marks the first successful partnership between RCSEd’s Faculty of Remote, Rural and Humanitarian Healthcare (FRRHH) and DNF, aiming to upskill surgeons who aspire to make a difference in the humanitarian space.

Professor Angus Watson, FRRHH Executive Committee Member, who helped facilitate the course, said: “The impact of this course has already been profound, and will save countless lives in future.

“By combining DNF’s expertise with RCSEd’s dedication to professional standards in humanitarian healthcare, this partnership promises to empower medical professionals and add to their skillset and provide crucial care in the most difficult of circumstances.”

The HEST-UK course offers a unique and rigorous training experience, drawing on the extensive frontline expertise of Professor David Nott, Co-Founder of the David Nott Foundation, who has over 30 years of experience in some of the world’s most dangerous conflict zones.

Participants are trained in a broad range of trauma care skills, from triage and head wounds to penetrating injuries and obstetric emergencies, preparing them as generalist trauma surgeons ready to provide care in any situation.

Dr. Israar Ul-Haq, a doctor specialising in urgent and pre-hospital care based in West Midlands, near Birmingham, joined a previous HEST-UK course to refine his trauma surgery skills before deploying to Gaza. His experience in Gaza’s crisis zones underscored the real-world impact of the training.

He said: “The course impacted every aspect of my work in Gaza, such as understanding the local environment and the types of injuries we encountered. Techniques like thoracotomy and bleeding control learned during the course became standard procedures in our daily practice.

“Whether it was performing chest drains, managing blast injuries, or treating burns, the training equipped me with the skills I needed.”

The course offers a strong progression from FRRHH’s Introduction to Humanitarian Healthcare Course, launched back in 2021.

Professor Rowan Parks, President of RCSEd, commented: “We are incredibly proud of our partnership with the David Nott Foundation and the tremendous impact of the Hostile Environment Surgical Training (HEST-UK) course.

“This collaboration represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to support and equip surgeons who are committed to providing life-saving care in the most challenging and austere environments, through innovative and accessible training programmes.”

Elly Nott, Co-Founder of the David Nott Foundation, said: “Wherever there is conflict, there is a need for well-trained doctors to provide safe, skilled surgical care. We are delighted to join forces with the RCSEd to run Hostile Environment Surgical Training-UK, a course dedicated to preparing surgeons for the injuries they encounter and treat in war.

“Our programme is taught by surgeons with decades of experience in conflict and catastrophe zones and informed by our values of compassion, excellence and resilience.”