Ukraine starts negotiations on security guarantees with UK

MOSCOW. Aug 14 (Interfax) - A Ukrainian delegation led by presidential office chief Andrei Yermak has started negotiations with the United Kingdom on a security guarantees agreement, Ukrainian media have reported with reference to the presidential press service.

"Today, Ukraine has started initial working-level negotiations with the United Kingdom on a bilateral agreement on security commitments as envisaged by the Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine, which is the basis for the development of relevant bilateral agreements," a statement published on the presidential website on Friday says.

The UK is the second country following the U.S. with which Ukraine has entered into negotiations on security guarantees, it said.

"The United Kingdom has consistently demonstrated its leadership and example in making and implementing the boldest decisions to support Ukraine. The Ukrainian people highly appreciate the assistance already provided, and we are confident in further strengthening our strategic partnership," Yermak was quoted as saying.