Ukraine sailors being trained in Scotland

BBC News:-

Ukrainian sailors are being trained in Scotland as part of the UK’s efforts to help in the war against Russia.

The Royal Navy are helping them operate Sandown Class Minehunter vessels, ahead of the sale of two such vessels in a deal agreed last year.

Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister Volodymr Havrylov has been in Scotland with UK Armed Forces Minister James Heappey to see the training.

For security reasons, the exact location is not being revealed.

They observed recruits learning weapon drills, damage control and how to operate the machinery on the vessels.

Mr Havrylov’s visit followed trips to Westminster, and to witness Ukraine infantry training in Wiltshire.

He said the ships were vital as there are many mines in the Black Sea.

The deal to hand over two vessels in September is part of an agreement made before the Russian invasion in February.

The majority of the Ukrainian navy was overwhelmed by Russian forces early in the conflict

Mr Havrylov said: “I saw the brotherhood of Ukrainian and British soldiers working together to achieve a common goal – strengthening the combat capabilities of the Ukrainian army.

“We are very grateful to the government and people of the United Kingdom for their invaluable contribution to Ukraine’s success in repelling the Russian aggressors.”