Ukraine and the United Kingdom have taken a significant step in strengthening their support for veterans through the signing of a Memorandum under the framework of Security Agreements. The agreement, signed by Ukraine’s Minister for Veterans Affairs Nataliya Kalmykova and the UK’s Minister for Veterans Alister Karns, aims to enhance cooperation and share expertise in developing a modern system of veteran support.
The partnership will focus on expanding opportunities for professional training, retraining, entrepreneurship, and employment for veterans. Both countries plan to develop digital solutions and ensure barrier-free access to services. The agreement also emphasizes adaptive sports programs for veterans and research in rehabilitation, with special attention to preparing Ukraine for the 2027 Invictus Games, which will be hosted by the UK.
During his visit to Kyiv, Alister Karns honored fallen Ukrainian soldiers by laying flowers at the Wall of Remembrance for Ukraine’s defenders. He also attended the International Veterans Forum “Ukraine. Veterans. Security,” where he highlighted the importance of comprehensive veteran support.
“We can learn from you how to fight far more than you can learn from us. In the UK, there are 2.1 million veterans, and we are now creating a new support system—from the national level to local communities. It is designed to provide standardized assistance in physical and mental health, education, careers, and family support,” Karns said.
Karns also reviewed Ukrainian veteran programs, including the “Neopalymi” initiative, which offers free rehabilitation and treatment for combat injuries, burns, and scars, and the Veteran Hub, a space dedicated to social adaptation and family support.
Nataliya Kalmykova noted that the partnership represents a new level of international cooperation.
“Together we are creating a system that guarantees modern services, rehabilitation, development opportunities, and a dignified place in society for Ukrainian veterans. Our friends’ experience helps us make policy more resilient, and our experience is important for our allies,” she said.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Ukraine-UK relations, aiming to provide veterans with comprehensive, high-quality support and to share best practices across both countries
