UK ready to double training program for Ukrainian army

“I agree that you have a serious situation in Donbas. Thousands were killed, more than one million people became refugees – and that’s right in Europe. Many of your soldiers were killed. I am here to assist you in the reforms and support Ukraine on its way to freedom,” said Fallon. The minister added that the UK will help Ukraine to implement military reforms. “I’m here to announce new training programs for soldiers and army in general. We will assist in training several thousand soldiers. We also welcome the Ukrainian reforms. We will continue to help you in facing the Russian aggression», said Michael Fallon, adding that Britain’s training mission was not provocative. “This is not lethal aid, this is not provocative. This is all designed to help the Ukrainian forces better defend themselves and to save lives”. At the same time the minister added that the Ukraine conflict is a “red hot” war that shows no sign of ending soon. Fallon said the 18-month long crisis had not settled into a frozen war and Ukraine’s eastern border was still at risk from Vladimir Putin. “We shouldn't lose sight of just how serious this situation is. Seven thousand people have already died in the Ukraine, right on the doorstep of Europe, as Ukraine fights for its freedom. This is not a frozen conflict, it’s still red hot,” said Michael Fallon.