Prime Minister Keir Starmer signs a historic 100-year pact in Kyiv, reinforcing military and economic support as Ukraine seeks stability against Russian aggression.
During a pivotal visit to Kyiv, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged unwavering support for Ukraine, signing a 100-year partnership that underscores the United Kingdom’s commitment in bolstering Ukraine amid its conflicts with Russia.
This historic agreement not only reaffirms military support but also promises economic aid and collaboration extending well into the next century, with a focus on healthcare, security, and technological advancements.
Starmer's visit coincided with a tense atmosphere in the Ukrainian capital, where air raid sirens were triggered by a Russian drone attack, which was intercepted by Ukraine’s defense systems.
Despite these challenges, President Volodymyr Zelensky lauded the UK’s reinforced commitment, noting it comes at a time of uncertainty about future U.S. support.
“Ukraine’s place in Europe and its contribution to European security must not be undermined.
The UK’s support is not just for today or tomorrow but for the next hundred years,” Starmer reassured Zelensky amidst the sirens.
The pact further develops an already significant financial commitment by the UK, building on the £12.8 billion in support provided to Ukraine, with £3 billion dedicated annually to military aid.
It includes a novel mobile air defense system, co-funded by Denmark, reflecting enhanced international cooperation.
Beyond military support, the agreement broadens to incorporate economic initiatives, emphasizing healthcare infrastructure development, agricultural technologies, and space industry cooperation.
It foresees continued personnel training, with over 50,000 Ukrainian troops having already been trained in the UK since the onset of the conflict.
The timing of this pact is prominent as geopolitical dynamics shift with
Donald Trump poised to assume office in the U.S., potentially redirecting the flow of American support which has been crucial for Ukraine.
Zelensky, acknowledging these shifts, seeks greater security assurances from allies like the UK.
The UK-Ukraine partnership is strategically planned to be laid out in Parliament soon, aiming to formalize enhanced maritime security in the Baltic and Black Seas and bolster strength against Russian advances in Eastern Ukraine.
Starmer’s statements during his visit to a Kyiv hospital, specializing in treating casualties from the conflict, highlighted the human cost of the war and the importance of fortified support.
"Seeing the resilience of the Ukrainian people amidst such devastation truly underscores the necessity of our ongoing support," he said.
Amidst growing calls for peacekeeping forces from NATO allies like France, the UK shows readiness to discuss such measures, highlighting its role as a major player in European security.
As Zelensky continues to strengthen alliances, the UK’s long-term commitment remains crucial to ensuring Ukraine's enduring sovereignty and resilience.