Rachel Reeves pledges support in Kyiv as British commandos armed to se | Politics | News
Chancellor Rachel Reeves visited Kiev to pledge “unwavering” support for Ukraine as the UK Ministry of Defense invests in high-speed boats and drones for the UK’s elite commando force. It may have been one of Ms. Reeves’ last official acts as Chancellor; He met families at a UK-supported rehabilitation center for disabled children, paid tribute to the fallen at the city’s memorial wall and examined battlefield technology used against Russian forces.
The UK will provide £1.5 billion in non-military support to Ukraine over 2026-27. This is on top of the UK’s £3 billion annual military commitment to Ukraine.
Ms Reeves said: “The UK’s support for Ukraine is rock-solid. Our partnership not only helps Ukraine on the battlefield, but also provides the financial firepower to rebuild stronger, help vulnerable people and protect critical infrastructure. Ukraine’s security is the security of Europe and we will continue to support the Ukrainian people.”
The Treasury said the British support meant more than 28,000 households and businesses could keep their lights and heating on throughout the winter.
Meanwhile, more than £500 million will be invested in the transformation of the UK Commando Force. New Defense Secretary Dan Jarvis has shifted the long-awaited Defense Investment Plan to “more pressing priorities,” according to the Ministry of Defence.
The new Future Commando Force will focus on the “High North” and will be equipped with the high-speed Commando Insertion Ship (CIC). These “could be used to capture more Russian shadow fleet tankers”.
Mr Jarvis said: “We are investing in new lethal attack drones, high-speed boats and amphibious transport ships to give our commandos the equipment they need to stay ahead of enemies and defend us. The Defense Investment Plan will prioritize getting the latest kit into the hands of our frontline forces so they can continue their vital work in an increasingly dangerous world.”
His predecessor, John Healey, resigned in protest at the lack of funding for the investment plan. The agreed upon version is expected to be presented before the NATO summit in Türkiye next month.
