The UK's dedication to European security was underscored by Defence Minister Minto during his visit to Bulgaria on April 15.
Representing the UK at the Black Sea Security Conference in Bulgaria, Minister Minto reaffirmed the UK's steadfast support for Ukraine and European security. The conference centered on fostering cooperation in response to Russia's incursion into Ukraine and its aggressive actions in the Black Sea.
Joined by allies and partners at the conference in Sofia, Minister Minto highlighted the UK's role as a leading partner for Ukraine and other Black Sea states. The gathering aimed to bolster collaboration and military capabilities to counter Russia's persistent threat to stability in the region.
Discussions during the conference encompassed strategies to enhance cooperation among Black Sea states and partners in the face of Putin's aggression and unlawful invasion of Ukraine. The UK's leadership of the Maritime Capability Coalition, announced by Defence Secretary Grant Shapps in December 2023, was also deliberated as a means to bolster Ukraine's maritime capabilities both in the immediate and long term.
Minister Minto emphasized the shared commitment of the UK and Bulgaria to supporting Ukraine in confronting Putin's aggression. He reiterated the resolve of the UK and its allies and partners to provide Ukraine with the necessary support to counter Russia and restore peace and security to the Black Sea region.
The UK's commitment to modernizing Ukraine's Navy was highlighted through the recent transfer of two former Royal Navy vessels to Ukraine. Additionally, Minister Minto outlined the extensive military aid package provided by the UK to Ukraine, including £7 billion in funding, training for over 60,000 Ukrainian recruits, and the donation of thousands of equipment pieces.
The imperative to continue supporting Ukraine to ensure its success against Putin's aggression and to restore peace and security in Europe was emphasized during the conference, which saw the participation of Ukrainian representatives.
In parallel with supporting Ukraine, the UK remains dedicated to bolstering regional security. This commitment was demonstrated by the deployment of Typhoons to Romania for NATO Air Policing patrols earlier in the month, ensuring the safety of the skies in the Black Sea region. Additionally, thousands of UK Armed Forces personnel are participating in NATO Exercise Steadfast Defender across Europe this year.
During his visit to Sofia, Minister Minto engaged in discussions with Bulgarian Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov to address shared security challenges and defense priorities. He also met with Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Tochytskyi Mykola to reaffirm the UK's support for Ukraine's security and sovereignty. Photo by Sb2s3, Wikimedia commons.