Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Pavlo Palisa met with David Teasdale, the new Defense Attaché of the British Embassy in Ukraine, and his predecessor Peter Cracroft.
Continuing the discussions initiated during the President of Ukraine’s meeting with the Chief of the Defense Staff of the United Kingdom, the parties focused on the development of security guarantees, including defense planning.
Pavlo Palisa thanked the United Kingdom for its assistance, which significantly strengthens Ukraine’s defense capabilities. He also emphasized that Ukraine is ready to share its combat experience and technologies with its partners. Such cooperation, he noted, can equally strengthen both Ukraine and the United Kingdom.
Special attention was given to the consequences of last night’s Russian strike on Kyiv, particularly the damage inflicted on the British Council office. The Deputy Head of the Presidential Office stressed that such attacks demonstrate Russia’s desire to destroy symbols of international presence and partnership in Ukraine. The British side condemned the Russian attack and expressed condolences to all Ukrainians who lost their loved ones in the strike.
The conversation also covered the ongoing work on security guarantees. The participants agreed that the time has come to move toward practical steps, noting that a ceasefire is a necessary stage for the practical implementation of the plans developed so far. It was also agreed that the proposals must be thoroughly prepared and coordinated with all partners.
Additionally, they discussed the Interflex training program, which plays a significant role in training Ukrainian warriors. The parties explored ways to improve and update the program.
“I am confident that cooperation with the United Kingdom will continue to evolve, and the new attaché will successfully continue this important mission,” said Pavlo Palisa.
The British side reaffirmed its full support for Ukraine and emphasized that the change of the Defense Attaché would in no way affect the level of this support.