The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) marked three years of training Ukrainian recruits under Operation ‘Interflex’ on 26 June 2025, noting that since 26 June 2022 more than 56,000 Ukrainian soldiers have been trained by the UK and 13 partner nations during the multination training programme.
Over the last three years Operation ‘Interflex’ has continued to evolve to match the specific threats being faced by the Ukrainian armed forces in repelling Russia’s illegal invasion of their country. A variety of training programmes have been delivered via Operation ‘Interflex’ focused on equipping trainees with the battlefield essentials: the basic infantry course, leadership training and instructor courses.
Led by the UK, Operation ‘Interflex’ has been delivered alongside 13 other partner nations: Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Denmark, Finland, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Albania, Estonia, Kosovo, Lithuania and Romania.
At a recent meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) on 4 June 2025, UK Defence Secretary John Healey announced that the UK will spend a further GBP 247 million (EUR 287.9 million) this year on training the Ukrainian armed forces.
“This funding not only supports Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression, but it is also vital in ensuring both European and UK security, underpinned by the Government’s Plan for Change,” the UK MoD stated.
Recent polling data reveals that 90% of all the trainees who have completed Interflex training since January 2025 feel more confident in their lethality and survivability at the end of training, the UK MoD noted, adding that the polling also revealed that one of the most valued elements of the training is battlefield first aid, with 93% of basic recruits saying they felt more confident about treating casualties after receiving the training.
The government has committed GBP 13 billion of military aid for Ukraine, with GBP 4.5 billion expected to be provided this year. This military aid includes training programmes like Operation ‘Interflex’, but also military capabilities and equipment such as drones, air defence systems and munitions.
“From each Ukrainian soldier made combat-ready on UK soil, to the GBP 13 billion committed in military support, we are proud of every element of our contribution to Ukraine’s fight against Russia’s illegal invasion,” UK Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard was quoted as saying by the MoD. “The government is clear that providing military support to Ukraine is essential to both UK and European security.
“The UK and its allies are united in our support for Ukraine,” Pollard added. “I am sure they share my constant awe of the resilience shown by the Ukrainian people in the face of Russian aggression.”
