Defence minister visit

Defence Minister Peeni Henare has visited Ukraine, becoming the first New Zealand minister to do so while the war with Russia rages on.

‘‘To be here to see for myself and hear first-hand the sacrifice of Ukrainian citizens when fighting for their territorial integrity is humbling,’’ Henare said in a statement released after he left Kyiv. ‘‘It is a sobering reminder for us all of the challenge of the conflict and why it is important to push for de-escalation and diplomacy. It also highlights why the New Zealand Government continues to show its support.’’

Henare reaffirmed New Zealand’s ‘‘unwavering support for the Ukrainian defence against Russia’s illegal and unprovoked invasion’’ during his meetings with his ministerial counterparts in Ukraine and Poland.

Henare held bilateral talks with Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov. ‘‘I reiterated New Zealand’s strong support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity, and its people, and affirmed our ongoing unequivocal condemnation of Russia’s aggression,’’ Henare said.

Earlier this month, New Zealand extended UK-based training support for Ukrainian soldiers until July next year, that was due to end this month.

‘‘Minister Reznikov expressed his gratitude for the extension of the training mission and noted that it was making a difference on the ground,’’ Henare said.

‘‘I want to be clear that while the New Zealand Defence Force will not be entering Ukraine to fight, we remain committed to contributing our skills and expertise to the defensive effort.’’

Henare said Reznikov’s top challenge was getting through winter. Reuters reported on Friday that a complete shutdown of Kyiv’s power grid was possible as Russian attacks had disabled