- EU foreign affairs chief arrives in London for talks with Foreign and Defence Secretaries as joint efforts intensify to curb Russia’s economy
- UK-EU foreign policy consultations will focus on united support for Ukraine, countering Russian hybrid threats and working to step up collective defence spending
- Talks will underline need for a secure and prosperous Europe and UK – a foundation of the Government’s Plan for Change.
As part of the UK’s commitment to strengthen ties with Europe and work together to secure the region’s future, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, will arrive in London today (Tuesday 18 March) for discussions with the Foreign and Defence Secretaries on ways to dial up pressure on Russia and deliver just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
The talks, part of a new era of UK-EU relations, will coordinate cooperation on Ukraine, and discuss efforts to increase economic pressure and ensure Russia pays for the damage it is causing to Ukraine – as well as stepping up action against hybrid threats, like cyberattacks, election interference and rampant Russian disinformation.
As part of the Government’s commitment to increase defence spending and keep the British people safe and secure for generations to come, the Foreign Secretary and the High Representative will review efforts to boost European defence spending, including through innovative initiatives, and bolstering wider military readiness in support of NATO.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy said:
A strong and secure Britain is a foundation of our Plan for Change. This cannot be achieved without strengthening our shared European security and coming together with our partners to ensure a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
More than three years on since Putin’s illegal full-scale invasion, we are facing a once-in-a-generation moment for our continent. It’s vital we upgrade our partnership with the EU and work together to bring an end to this war and deliver security of all of our citizens.
The UK and EU – along with other international partners – have already jointly imposed sanctions on Russia, depriving its economy of $450 billion since February 2022. Both have also worked together to train Ukrainian soldiers through the UK’s Operation INTERFLEX and the EU’s Military Advisory Mission to Ukraine, which between them have trained over 120,000 soldiers.
The Chief of the Defence Staff will also host Kallas for a briefing from The Commander INTERFLEX and the EU’s Liaison Officer for the Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine. Discussions will focus on around how to build on the success of Operation INTERFLEX by enhancing the training offered to Ukraine
Defence Secretary John Healey said:
This Government is stepping up on European security; deepening our defence relationship with our EU and NATO allies is vital during this critical period.
European security starts in Ukraine. The UK and EU are united in our resolve to back Ukraine with the military firepower they need to stand up to Russia’s illegal invasion and secure a lasting peace.
The talks build on the UK’s increased engagement with the EU, after the Prime Minister joined European Council meetings in February and earlier this month, and EU Presidents von der Leyen and Costa attended the Leaders’ Meeting on Ukraine in London.
Ahead of the first UK-EU Summit on 19 May and the UK-hosted Berlin Process Summit later this year, discussions are expected to also include other areas of cooperation such as stability in the Western Balkans, where both the UK and EU play a leading role in maintaining peace and security.
