Denys Shmyhal holds talks on strengthening air defence with the UK Chief of the Defence Staff

The Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Denys Shmyhal, met in Kyiv with the Chief of the Defence Staff of the United Kingdom, Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton.

First and foremost, the Minister expressed gratitude for the strong defence cooperation and long-term support provided under the One Hundred Year Partnership Agreement. He also thanked the United Kingdom for its efforts to convene Ramstein-format meetings.

The Ukrainian side briefed the British delegation on the security situation, with a primary focus on Ukraine’s needs to repel enemy air attacks.

Denys Shmyhal underscored the significance of the joint project with the United Kingdom to manufacture the Ukrainian Octopus interceptor drone. The delegations discussed further steps to strengthen the protection of the Ukrainian people.

They also outlined other areas of cooperation, including defence industry financing, artillery and long-range munitions, and remote mining capabilities.

“In close coordination with the United Kingdom, we are developing a clear plan for security cooperation in 2026. I thank the United Kingdom for the meeting, the constructive dialogue, and its comprehensive support,” said Denys Shmyhal, Minister of Defence of Ukraine.