Valerii Zaluzhnyi, former commander-in-chief of Ukraine, has been appointed as the country’s next ambassador to the United Kingdom. His appointment comes after President Volodymyr Zelenskiy dismissed him due to a failed summer counter-offensive against Russian forces. Zaluzhnyi’s new role fills the vacancy left by the dismissal of Vadym Prystaiko in 2023. His relationship with British Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, developed during the conflict, and his high profile are seen as strategic assets in his diplomatic capacity.

In a related development, the UK has announced a commitment to aid Ukraine in its conflict with Russia by supplying 10,000 drones, backed by a £125 million investment. This support, as pronounced by Defence Secretary Grant Shapps during a visit to Kyiv, adds to a previously confirmed package, bringing the total UK support to £325 million. The drones include 1,000 “kamikaze” attack drones and technologies focusing on anti-shipping capabilities, aiming to counteract Russian naval forces in the Black Sea. Shapps emphasized the effectiveness of previously donated UK weapons, stating that they had significantly impacted Russia’s Black Sea Fleet. This contribution, along with urging international support for Ukraine, represents the UK’s ongoing commitment to assist Ukraine in its defensive efforts against Russian aggression.