UK Extends Operation Interflex Training for Ukrainian Soldiers

The UK government has announced an extension of its training programme for Ukrainian soldiers, known as Operation Interflex, which will continue until at least the end of 2026. Defence Secretary John Healey confirmed this decision ahead of Ukraine’s independence day celebrations, emphasizing the UK’s commitment to enhancing support for Ukrainian forces.

More than 50,000 Ukrainian recruits have received military training on British soil since the programme began. As Ukraine prepares to mark 34 years since its independence from the Soviet Union on August 24, 2023, Healey stated: “We will continue to step up our support alongside allies, so that Ukraine can defend today and deter tomorrow.”

Amid ongoing Russian attacks, Healey highlighted the necessity of strengthening Ukraine’s armed forces. He noted that a secure Ukraine contributes to a secure Europe, stating, “This matters to Ukraine and it matters to Britain.” The Defence Secretary emphasized the importance of evolving military training to meet the changing demands of the conflict, which includes enhancing leadership and command skills for Ukrainian officers.

Operation Interflex, initially a five-week basic combat training course, has been expanded to seven weeks. The programme now includes alternative courses focusing on leadership training, reflecting the evolving needs of Kyiv. The Ministry of Defence has announced that British leaders are adapting the training curriculum to ensure that Ukrainian recruits are well-prepared for the challenges they face.

Celebrations for Ukrainian independence day will take place at one of the Interflex training sites in England, where over 2,000 participants, including Ukrainian recruits and British military personnel, are expected to gather. Healey remarked on the significance of this day for the freedom and democracy of the Ukrainian people, reaffirming the UK’s commitment to providing essential combat skills to Ukrainian forces.

As the UK ramps up its training efforts, the collaboration between the two nations continues to deepen, contributing to military industrial partnerships and job creation across Britain. The ongoing support and training initiatives signify a unified front in the face of aggression, with a shared goal of securing a peaceful future for Ukraine.