Century-long partnership with the United Kingdom: The Ministry of Defense explains how the agreement strengthens Ukraine’s security
One year ago, the Declaration on a Century-Long Partnership between Ukraine and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland was signed.
The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine spoke about it on January 15.
“This agreement defines the framework for cooperation for the next 100 years. The document covers a wide range of areas — from defense and security to the economy, energy, science, and education. However, the security and defense block has become its core”, — the Ministry of Defense noted.
The agreement enshrined the United Kingdom’s long-term commitments to supporting Ukraine’s defense capabilities, including stable annual military assistance at the level of £3 billion, as well as London’s readiness to maintain this level of support for as long as necessary to guarantee Ukraine’s security.
“This approach signifies a transition from situational assistance to predictable and systemic support”, — the Ministry emphasized.
Special attention in the agreement is paid to training and developing the capabilities of Ukraine’s Defense Forces.
The United Kingdom committed to expanding training programs for Ukrainian servicemembers, particularly in the aviation sector, as well as facilitating the provision of modern weapons and equipment to Ukraine in coordination with partners and allies.
Defense-industrial cooperation also became an important component of the century-long partnership.
“The document provides for the development of joint projects in weapons production, including unmanned systems, artillery, and other high-tech solutions. This lays the foundation for strengthening Ukraine’s defense-industrial complex and reducing dependence on external supplies in the medium and long term”, — the Ministry of Defense stressed.
The agreement also reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic course. The parties agreed to deepen interoperability between the Armed Forces of Ukraine and NATO forces and to view Ukraine’s future membership in the Alliance as a key factor for long-term stability and security in Europe.
A separate section of the document is devoted to maritime security. Ukraine and the United Kingdom agreed to cooperate in strengthening security in the Black, Azov, and Baltic Seas, which is critical for protecting maritime communications, freedom of navigation, and the region’s economic stability.
“The anniversary of the signing of the Century-Long Partnership Agreement is an opportunity to emphasize: this is not a political declaration or a short-term gesture of solidarity, but a strategic choice and long-term commitments. The agreement has become a symbol of deep trust between Kyiv and London and an important element in forming a resilient security system for Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression”, — the Ministry of Defense concluded.