UK’s Starmer pledges to strengthen Ukraine’s position in its conflict with Russia

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated on Thursday that he would provide Ukraine with the necessary support to ensure it is in the best possible position to combat Russia in 2025, emphasizing before his discussions in Kyiv with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy: “We mustn’t let up.”

This marks Starmer’s first visit to Ukraine since assuming office in July of the previous year, and he aimed to reaffirm Britain’s commitment to the country just days ahead of Donald Trump’s anticipated return to power in the United States.

His trip follows closely on the heels of German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius’s visit, as European leaders consider what security assurances they can offer as part of any potential peace deal that may be advocated by Trump. Concerns have arisen regarding Trump’s return to the White House, with fears that efforts to conclude Moscow’s conflict could compel Ukraine to relinquish significant territories to Russia for the foreseeable future.

“It is crucial that we ensure Ukraine is in the strongest possible position,” Starmer remarked to reporters after visiting a Kyiv hospital that specializes in burn treatment. “This is why I have engaged in extensive discussions with President Zelenskiy over the months since I became prime minister, and I will continue to do so here in Ukraine.”

“As we approach the three-year mark of this conflict, we must remain steadfast.” Ukraine currently finds itself in a challenging position on the front lines.

Ukrainian forces are currently facing significant manpower shortages and are losing territory in the eastern Donetsk region as Russian troops continue their gradual advance. During Sir Keir Starmer’s meeting with officials in Kyiv, a loud explosion was heard as Ukrainian air defense systems intercepted Russian drones. Since the onset of Russia’s invasion in 2022, the United Kingdom has been a strong advocate for Ukraine, with Starmer’s predecessors having visited Kyiv early in their terms.

Although it took Starmer longer to make the visit, he arrives with a commitment to a century-long partnership with Kyiv aimed at enhancing security and cultural connections. The treaty and political declaration seek to increase military collaboration to bolster security in the Baltic Sea, Black Sea, and Sea of Azov, while also deterring Russian aggression. Additionally, the agreement will address sectors such as energy, critical minerals, and green steel production, according to Starmer’s office.

“Putin’s goal to separate Ukraine from its closest allies has proven to be a significant strategic miscalculation,” Starmer stated. “On the contrary, we are now more united than ever, and this partnership will elevate that friendship to new heights.” Since 2022, the UK has provided £12.8 billion ($16 billion) in support to Ukraine, a figure that pales in comparison to Washington’s $63.5 billion in security assistance, highlighting the critical nature of U.S. actions regarding Ukraine.

The partnership announced on Thursday includes £40 million for Ukraine’s economic recovery, along with additional support for grain verification and trade, particularly benefiting Ukraine’s robust technology sector that has developed equipment for combat readiness.