UK Government support for Ukraine’s nuclear fuel supply will help end the country’s reliance on Russian supplies, Grant Shapps said after a trip to a Ukrainian power station.
The Government has announced its intention to provideâ¯a £192 million loanâ¯guarantee through UK Export Finance (UKEF) – the UK’s export credit agency⯖ enablingâ¯UK-headquarteredâ¯Urencoâ¯to supply Ukraine’s national nuclear company,â¯Energoatom, with uranium enrichment services, which are vital for nuclear fuel.
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero said that, once provided, the support will bring the UK’s non-military financial assistance to Ukraine close to £5 billion.
On his visit to Ukraine, Mr Shapps also visited a children’s nursery attended byâ¯Nikita, the young sonâ¯of the family he took in under the Homes for Ukraine scheme.
The Energy Secretary played a recorded message from Nikita for the children, the Government said.
Mr Shapps also visited Kyiv, where he met with senior Ukrainian ministers and energy industry figures to discuss Ukraine’s recovery and ongoing UK support.
And he also visitedâ¯a powerâ¯station undergoing repairs after being damaged by Russian bombing.
Mr Shapps said: “Our support for Ukraine is unwavering in the face of (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s barbaric invasion – the UK continues to stand with Ukraine as they repel Russian attacks and rebuild their country.
“Being here on the ground, it’s truly remarkable witnessing first-hand the sheer courage, resolve andâ¯gritty determinationâ¯of the Ukrainian people.
The illegal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine is continuing.
— Ministry of Defence (@DefenceHQ) August 22, 2023
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“Putin has used energy as a weapon of war: the action today to support nuclear fuel deliveries will help Ukraine end their reliance on Russian supplies and bolster their energy security.”