Since 2023, Cairnhill Structures, which is based in Coatbridge has been delivering steel for the reconstruction of bridges around Kyiv, which were destroyed during February 2022 by the Ukrainian Armed Forces to stop the mobilisation of Russian soldiers. 

With funding backed by the government’s export credit agency, UK Export Finance (UKEF), the rebuilding of these bridges is helping to bring back transport connections around Kyiv and is making civilians and businesses able to travel in the region with more ease. 

Since 2024, four bridges have been rebuilt. A further two bridges are anticipated to be delivered later in 2026. 

Cooper said: “The UK stands firmly with Ukraine, not only in its fight for freedom today, but in ensuring it has the strength to rebuild for the future.  

“A just and lasting peace is urgent and non-negotiable.”

Cooper added: “But Ukraine needs long-term support both to get through the conflict and to rebuild in future and I’m proud that Scottish steel is playing a vital role in Ukraine’s recovery, rebuilding essential infrastructure, reconnecting communities around Kyiv, and delivering long-term benefits for both our economies.”  

The UK government helped to place UK businesses as the suppliers of choice by holding events in London, Istanbul, Warsaw and Kyiv, where contractors were introduced to Cairnhill Structures.  

Steven Hendry, group managing director at Cairnhill Structures Limited, said: “Cairnhill Structures and our staff were very pleased to successfully deliver this UK-government supported project fabricating steelwork for the reconstruction of bridges in Ukraine and making a small contribution to the Ukrainian people in this incredibly difficult time.” 

Whilst at the conference, the foreign secretary announced a new package valued at nearly £290 million to boost Ukraine’s recovery and energy security.