British Defence Firms Pledge Support for Ukraine

Senior executives from British defence companies met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to discuss strengthening military support for Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia. The meeting coincided with the European Political Community summit in London, featuring notable industry and government figures. Increased cooperation between industry and government was a key focus.

Senior executives from leading British defence firms, including BAE and Babcock, met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Thursday to address the urgent need to enhance military support for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. The high-level discussion took place during the European Political Community (EPC) summit in London, with key figures such as British Defence Minister John Healey and Business Minister Jonathan Reynolds also in attendance.

"Meeting with industry leaders today, I emphasised that the government will continue to partner with the industry to boost the industrial production of critical military equipment for both Ukraine and our own Armed Forces," Healey stated. Additionally, Babcock announced an extension of its contract with the British defence ministry by six months to provide continued maintenance and repair of military vehicles.

Earlier that day, Britain's new Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, praised European unity at the EPC summit and called for deeper defence and security cooperation to better support Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression.

(With inputs from agencies.)