Attending the Black Sea Security Conference in Sofia alongside allies and partners, Minto represented the UK – a leading partner for Ukraine and other Black Sea states.
The conference was convened to promote cooperation and military capacity building in the face of Russia’s continued threat to stability in the Black Sea region.
The conference aims to enhance the collaboration between the Black Sea states and partners in response to Putin’s aggression and illegal invasion of Ukraine.
The UK’s leadership of the Maritime Capability Coalition, announced by UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps in December 2023, was discussed during the conference as a means to grow Ukraine’s maritime capability now and in the long term.
Defence Minister, The Earl of Minto said:
“One of many things that the UK and Bulgaria have in common is our steadfast support to Ukraine in the face of Putin’s barbaric invasion.
The UK and our allies and partners will continue to work together to give Ukraine what they need to defeat Russia and restore peace and security to the Black Sea region.”
The UK’s commitment to modernise Ukraine’s Navy is demonstrated by the transfer of two former Royal Navy vessels to Ukraine, which arrived in Portsmouth last week.
In addition to maritime support, the Minister also set out the extensive package of military aid that the UK has provided to Ukraine to date, including £7 billion of funding, training of over 60,000 Ukrainian recruits, and donation of thousands of pieces of equipment to date.
Ukraine has a great potential for defence products in the future. Sea drones that they have pioneered are great for a nation that is looking to keep its coast safe. Getting them working will other assets will be expand capabilities.
Russian black sea fleet is shrinking while other nations expand or stay the same.
In a post Brexit world both Tory and Labour see our future relationship with Europe pivoting on our defence capabilities.