Ruslan Stefanchuk and British Ambassador Neil Crompton discussed strengthening strategic partnership and further support for Ukraine
The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Ruslan Stefanchuk, met with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Kingdom to Ukraine, Neil Crompton, who is beginning his diplomatic mission at an extremely difficult time for our country. The talks were an important step towards further strengthening the strategic partnership between Ukraine and the United Kingdom.
The conversation began with a discussion of the consequences of russia's latest massive attack on Kyiv and a number of regions. The Speaker of Parliament stressed that the kremlin continues to deliberately target the civilian population and critical infrastructure. During the latest strike, russia used 430 drones and 19 missiles of various types, resulting in deaths and dozens of injuries, including children and a pregnant woman.
Ruslan Stefanchuk stressed the need to strengthen international mechanisms to deter russian terror and strengthen the protection of Ukrainian airspace. He noted that in the context of constant attacks, the «peace through strength» approach remains the only effective way to ensure the security of all of Europe. Ukraine remains committed to the formula of a just peace.
The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada thanked the United Kingdom for its comprehensive support — military, financial, sanctions and diplomatic. He stressed that this assistance is a real contribution to protecting the lives of Ukrainians and strengthening the resilience of the state.
During the meeting, special attention was paid to the implementation of the Centenary Partnership Agreement between Ukraine and the United Kingdom, which defines the long-term framework for cooperation in the areas of security, economy and politics. The parties also discussed strengthening sanctions pressure, in particular the fight against the «shadow fleet» and the need to impose secondary sanctions against intermediaries who help russia circumvent international restrictions. The issue of further work on mechanisms for using frozen russian assets was also raised.
Ruslan Stefanchuk thanked the British side for its active participation in global initiatives to return deported Ukrainian children and for its support for humanitarian programmes.
Ukraine highly appreciates the unwavering solidarity of the United Kingdom, one of its most steadfast partners on the path to victory, freedom and a European future.