UK extends Ukrainian military training program for another year
British military experts’ training of the Ukrainian Army will be extended for another year, until the beginning of 2018, as was stated on Sunday, by the UK Secretary of State for Defence, Michael Fallon.
"The extension of Great Britain’s training of the Ukrainian armed forces will send a clear signal that we support Ukraine and remain firmly committed to its sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity in the face of a more hostile Russia," the Secretary said.
In 2015, Fallon approved an increase in the number of British military instructors in Ukraine up to 100 people. They have been training Ukrainian soldiers and officers in the warfare techniques, medical assistance, logistics, media relations, and operational planning. It is expected that by March 2017, the British will be able to train five thousand Ukrainian servicemen.
In addition, the UK has supplied Ukraine with non-lethal equipment including first-aid kits and winter clothing worth more than £ 1 million ($ 1.25 million).