Starmer in Kyiv to pledge more Ukraine support


Sir Keir Starmer arrives in Ukraine to sign a “landmark 100-year partnership” between the UK and Ukraine, which formalises the economic and military support pledged to the latter country and offers even more assistance. The agreement is also a show of support for Ukraine days before the inauguration of President-elect, Donald Trump, who is regarded by some as less supportive of the country in its conflict with Russia. The pact represents a continuation of the policies of the previous Conservative government toward Ukraine and has been welcomed by its president, Volodymyr Zelensky.

Zelensky has called on the UK and other key allies for firm security guarantees against any future Russian aggression and has also expressed his desire for his country to join NATO. Sir Keir has pledged his support against Russia’s “illegal and barbaric invasion,” insisting that this deal signifies a long-term commitment to the friendship between the two countries for “the next century.” The partnership will include increased economic and military aid, as well as greater collaboration on maritime security, drone technology, and healthcare.

Trump’s choice for Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has warned that both Ukraine and Russia must make concessions to bring an end to the war. In any peace agreement, Ukraine would like its allies to send peacekeepers to the country to patrol the current frontline, which could become a buffer between the warring parties. Ukraine has already been using British-supplied Storm Shadow missiles to attack Russian military facilities far from their border.

This partnership will represent an investment in the future of both countries and build upon the significant support the UK has already given Ukraine ($12.8bn) with an extra $3.5bn in military support pledged as long as it is needed. The package will be delivered in a treaty as well as a political declaration, which will be presented to Parliament shortly. Sir Keir previously visited Ukraine while opposition leader and has met with President Zelensky on two occasions

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