The Defence Secretary of the United Kingdom, Grant Shapps, and the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, recently conducted an official visit to the
capital of Ukraine, Kyiv, where they met with President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The confirmation of this visit was shared by President Zelensky in a video posted on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter). The video showcased Grant Shapps and Admiral Sir Tony Radakin engaged in discussions with the Ukrainian leader.
The footage depicted Mr. Shapps in talks with President Zelensky, accompanied by military officials from both the United Kingdom and Ukraine. This marked Mr. Shapps' inaugural visit to Ukraine since assuming the role of Defence Secretary earlier this month.
In his X post, President Zelensky expressed his gratitude, stating, "I received UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps in Kyiv. I am profoundly grateful to the UK for all the financial, humanitarian, and military support, including crucial long-range capabilities. We discussed further defense co-operation and steps to strengthen Ukraine's air defense."
This visit to Ukraine occurs early in Mr. Shapps' tenure as Defence Secretary. He assumed this position at the end of August, having previously held several senior government roles.
On social media, the Defence Secretary affirmed his commitment, writing, "I've been back to Kyiv this week to ask President Zelensky what he needs to win. As Ukraine retakes its territory, UK support remains unwavering. We will work tirelessly to bring our partners together to help Ukraine defeat Putin's illegal invasion. Slava Ukraini."
The UK Ministry of Defence also expressed its support on X, stating, "We're standing with Ukraine in their fight against Putin’s illegal invasion. Visiting Kyiv for the first time as Defence Secretary, @grantshapps met President @ZelenskyyUa and pledged his personal commitment to continue the UK's unwavering support for Ukraine’s freedom." Photo by Francisco Anzola, Wikimedia commons.