Sir Michael Fallon announced new British military training to Ukrainian forces battling Russian-backed separatists and said a Royal Navy warship will visit the country for the first time in a decade, The Telegraph wrote.

He arrived in Kyiv for two days of talks as the U.S. election of Mr. Trump has caused alarm among Ukrainians dismayed at his apparent warmth towards Vladimir Putin.

In comments likely to be seen as a message to Mr. Trump, Sir Michael said: "The values of freedom and democracy cannot be traded."

"Britain is stepping up on the global stage and standing firm with our Ukrainian friends."

Read alsoUkraine, UK to expand cooperation: Aircraft engineering, army training"The UK is sending a clear message that we are committed to defending democracy across the world and support Ukraine's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity."

The remarks follow comments from Mr. Trump that he will propose an end to sanctions imposed after the annexation of Crimea.

Mr. Trump has downplayed Russian aggression in Donbas region of Eastern Ukraine and has suggested he may recognize Moscow's claims on the peninsula.

He has said he wants to improve ties with Russia, despite allegations by U.S. spy agencies that Mr. Putin ordered a cyber campaign to boost Trump's campaign against Hillary Clinton.