At a time when Ukraine is on the frontline of geopolitical and military conflicts, every tangible aid from allies becomes precious. In this difficult struggle for the freedom and independence of Ukraine, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, commander of the British Armed Forces, became one of the most prominent allies.
The British newspaper Time writes about it. It is understood that the head of the armed forces will remain in his post for another year after he became a key player in helping Ukraine in its plans to fight Russia.
Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, 58, was due to retire in November this year after three years as Chief of the Defense Staff. However, the Prime Minister asked him to remain in this position until the fall of 2025. It is clear that Rishi Sunak's decision was approved by the king.
Sources close to Radakin pointed to his "shuttle diplomacy" last summer between Washington and Kiev, during which he held key one-on-one meetings with Ukrainian military leaders amid White House concerns that the U.S. was getting too involved in the war.
They said he was able to understand the tactical details of the ground war in Ukraine, as well as relate it to the bigger strategic picture and the need to coordinate a military response.
He was coming to Kyiv to meet with President Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss Ukraine's strategy and how the West can help. A Ukrainian military source said he is loved for his "wise strategic thinking" and that he helps the country draw up battle plans without going into details for security reasons.
Radakin is believed to have helped the Ukrainian Defense Forces implement a strategy to destroy Russian ships and open up the Black Sea, with Ukraine's maritime trade said to be returning to pre-war levels.
He also provided invaluable assistance in coordinating support from other senior NATO officials, the source said.
Radakin, who was educated at a public school and became the first sea lord, took the top job just months before Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. He was the first naval commander to hold the post for 20 years. Since then, he has led the Army through what many consider the most dangerous period since the end of the Cold War. One defense source said it was important to maintain "continuity" as the war in Ukraine continues and a general election in the UK is imminent.
