By KYIV. Nov 9 (Interfax-Ukraine) – The UK will provide a batch of winter equipment to the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) to help them defend their country in grueling winter conditions, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said.
"We must also continue backing the Ukrainian people in their resistance to Putin’s brutality. I’m pleased that UK-donated kit will be keeping the Ukrainian Armed Forces warm and safe as they face a perilous winter fighting for their country," Sunak said in a post on the British government website on Wednesday.
In particular, it is noted that the UK will donate another 12,000 sleeping sets and 150 heated tents.
"The UK is set to deliver more than 25,000 sets of extreme cold weather clothing by mid-December, ensuring troops are able to operate and survive the plunging temperatures in Ukraine," the UK government said.
The extreme cold weather kits are in addition to more than 7,000 sets of normal cold weather kit distributed to recruits on Operation Interflex.
"With winter fast approaching, this equipment will ensure that the Armed Forces of Ukraine are able to operate effectively through the next few months. Alongside our training programme and the provision of lethal aid, it demonstrates our commitment to making sure that the basic Ukrainian soldier is well trained, well equipped and given the best possible chance to fight and determine their own future," Defense Secretary Ben Wallace said.
On Wednesday, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will host NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at 10 Downing Street to discuss the future of security and deterrence in the Euro-Atlantic area. Stoltenberg will be the first international leader to be hosted by a British prime minister at 10 Downing Street since he took office last month. The leaders are expected to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine and how allies can best support their courageous defense. They will also discuss the future of the NATO alliance and how to ensure its combat capability for future generations.
