As part of the UK's commitment to strengthen ties with Europe and
work together to secure the region's future, the EU's High
Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, will arrive in
London today (Tuesday 18 March) for discussions with the Foreign
and Defence Secretaries on ways to dial up pressure on Russia and
deliver just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
The talks, part of a new era of UK-EU relations, will coordinate
cooperation on Ukraine, and discuss efforts to increase economic
pressure and ensure Russia pays for the damage it is causing to
Ukraine – as well as stepping up action against hybrid
threats, like cyberattacks, election interference and rampant
Russian disinformation.
As part of the Government's commitment to increase defence
spending and keep the British people safe and secure for
generations to come, the Foreign Secretary and the High
Representative will review efforts to boost European defence
spending, including through innovative initiatives, and
bolstering wider military readiness in support of NATO.
Foreign Secretary said:
“A strong and secure Britain is a foundation of our Plan for
Change. This cannot be achieved without strengthening our shared
European security and coming together with our partners to ensure
a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
“More than three years on since Putin's illegal full-scale
invasion, we are facing a once-in-a-generation moment for our
continent. It's vital we upgrade our partnership with the EU and
work together to bring an end to this war and deliver security of
all of our citizens.”
The UK and EU – along with other international partners - have
already jointly imposed sanctions on Russia, depriving its
economy of $450 billion since February 2022. Both have also
worked together to train Ukrainian soldiers through the UK's
Operation INTERFLEX and the EU's Military Advisory Mission to
Ukraine, which between them have trained over 120,000 soldiers.
The Chief of the Defence Staff will also host Kallas for a
briefing from The Commander INTERFLEX and the EU's Liaison
Officer for the Military Assistance Mission in support of
Ukraine. Discussions will focus on around how to build on the
success of Operation INTERFLEX by enhancing the training offered
to Ukraine
Defence Secretary said:
“This Government is stepping up on European security; deepening
our defence relationship with our EU and NATO allies is vital
during this critical period.
“European security starts in Ukraine. The UK and EU are united in
our resolve to back Ukraine with the military firepower they need
to stand up to Russia's illegal invasion and secure a lasting
peace.”
The talks build on the UK's increased engagement with the EU,
after the Prime Minister joined European Council meetings in
February and earlier this month, and EU Presidents von der Leyen
and Costa attended the Leaders' Meeting on Ukraine in London.
Ahead of the first UK-EU Summit on 19 May and the UK-hosted
Berlin Process Summit later this year, discussions are expected
to also include other areas of cooperation such as stability in
the Western Balkans, where both the UK and EU play a leading role
in maintaining peace and security.
