Keir Starmer arrived in Kyiv shortly before stepping down as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
On 16 July, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is visiting Kyiv during the final week of his tenure as head of the British government. During the visit, he will meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, according to The Telegraph.
According to the British government, the two sides will discuss progress in supplying Ukraine with weapons to continue the fight against the Russian invasion, and will also determine the areas in which the allies need to focus their further support to ensure Ukraine receives everything it needs.
Officials in London noted that Keir Starmer will also pay tribute to the courage of the Ukrainian people and reaffirm the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine.
Ahead of the trip, the British Prime Minister stated that the resilience of the Ukrainian people since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022 had helped to preserve Europe’s security.
“I have witnessed the incredible resilience of the Ukrainian people and the iron will of a nation that refuses to be intimidated. Their stance has not only defended their own freedom but also safeguarded Europe’s security,” said Starmer.
He added that, from the outset of his tenure, he had believed that the UK should not only support Ukraine during the war, but also help lay the foundations for its long-term security and success. He also emphasised that London is increasing investment in defence, developing the military technologies of the future and working to ensure that Ukraine is in as strong a position as possible.
The British government emphasised that Starmer, who has played a key role in forging international coalitions, providing military support and establishing long-term security partnerships, will reaffirm to Volodymyr Zelenskyy the consistency of British policy towards Ukraine.
The talks are also set to review the results of cooperation between the UK and its allies during Starmer’s two years as Prime Minister.
Separately, the British Prime Minister is expected to emphasise that his resignation will not alter London’s course of action regarding support for Ukraine.
“I am proud of what Britain has achieved. This work will continue, and our unwavering support for Ukraine will always endure,” said Keir Starmer.
The British government also noted that the partnerships, coalitions and support mechanisms established over the past two years are designed for the long term.
Earlier this week, Keir Starmer had already met with Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a meeting of the ‘Coalition of the Resolute’ in Paris.
Keir Starmer is expected to step down as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom next Monday after losing support within the Labour Party. He is set to be replaced by the new Labour leader, Andy Burnham.
