The United Kingdom has become the first among the G7 nations to formalize a security agreement with Ukraine, marking a significant step in bolstering the Eastern European nation's defense capabilities. The landmark accord, signed by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv on January 12, outlines a comprehensive framework for security cooperation with a validity period of ten years, RBC reported.
The essence of the British guarantees of Ukrainian security is detailed in the document titled "Agreement on Security Cooperation between Ukraine and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland." The key obligations undertaken by the UK include:
Comprehensive Assistance: The UK commits to providing Ukraine with comprehensive support to protect and restore its territorial integrity within internationally recognized borders. This includes efforts to revive the economy and ensure the safety of Ukrainian citizens.
Deterrence of Russian Aggression: The agreement emphasizes preventing, actively deterring, and countering any military escalation or new aggression by the Russian Federation. This underscores the commitment to maintaining regional stability and safeguarding Ukraine from external threats.
Euro-Atlantic Integration: The UK pledges support for Ukraine's integration into Euro-Atlantic institutions, particularly aiding in reforms and enhancing compatibility with NATO.
A crucial aspect of the agreement is the UK's commitment to aiding Ukraine in the development of its defense industry. This involves the localization of the production of British weapons and repairs in Ukraine, with London ready to transfer production technologies, contingent on Kyiv ensuring their protection.
The agreement extends beyond military aspects to encompass non-military security concerns. This includes the protection of critical infrastructure, joint efforts in cybersecurity – with plans to create a protocol for deterring and responding to cyber attacks from the Russian Federation and its allies – as well as cooperative measures against propaganda and organized crime.
Financial and humanitarian obligations are outlined, with the UK pledging assistance in the restoration of Ukraine, funding for mine clearance programs, and facilitating Ukraine's access to the British financial sector. The document stresses the importance of Ukraine continuing reforms aligned with the standards of the European Union, NATO, and the International Monetary Fund.
Part VIII of the agreement focuses on actions in the event of an armed attack on Ukraine. Parties to the document can hold consultations within 24 hours to agree on further actions. While the UK commits to providing immediate and permanent assistance to Kyiv, the agreement does not stipulate direct military intervention or the stationing of British troops in Ukraine.
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