Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Oleksandr Turchynov met with Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defense of the United Kingdom Stephen Lovegrove
Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Oleksandr Turchynov met with Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defense of the United Kingdom Stephen Lovegrove.
During the meeting, the interlocutors discussed the situation developed as a result of Russian aggression in Ukraine and the Middle East.
"Russia's actions show that it wants to change the architecture of the world that has developed after the Second World War", - Mr. Turchynov said adding that Russia is conducting a hybrid war against Ukraine "not only on the battlefield but also in energy, information, economic and other spheres".
Secretary of the Ministry of Defense of the United Kingdom added that his country is concerned about an increase in Russia's militarization and "how the hybrid war initiated by Russia is unfolding".
In this context, the parties acknowledged the need not only to prolong sanctions against Russia but also to strengthen them. "Sanctions are the only way to stop Russia from growing militarization and continuing their military aggression", - the NSDC Secretary emphasized. In addition, the interlocutors discussed the possibility of intensifying cooperation between our countries in the defense and security sectors.
"We are ready and interested in cooperation in the format of joint projects in the security and defense sector", - Oleksandr Turchynov noticed.
Mr. Lovegrove stressed that the UK respects the territorial sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. "We recognize that the annexation of the Crimea is an illegal act", - he added. Summing up, Secretary of the Ministry of Defense of the United Kingdom expressed his hope that cooperation with Ukraine would continue and deepen.
"Ukraine is one of our most important strategic partners, we are ready to stand next to your country helping and working with you at all levels", - he stressed.