UK's Starmer Signs Historic 100-Year Partnership with Ukraine, Pledging Century-Long Security and Economic Recovery Support

Jan 16, 2025, 05:23 AM

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has arrived in Ukraine to sign a historic 100-year partnership agreement with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This visit, Starmer's first to Ukraine since becoming prime minister in July, comes just days before Donald Trump's inauguration as U.S. president. The agreement aims to deepen the bond between the UK and Ukraine across defense, science, energy, and trade sectors. Starmer has pledged to help guarantee Ukraine's security for a century, emphasizing the strategic failure of Russian President Vladimir Putin's efforts to isolate Kyiv. The partnership includes commitments to maritime security and technology projects, such as drones, and is part of broader efforts to support Ukraine's post-war economic recovery and security. Starmer announced £40 million for Ukraine's economic recovery, in addition to the UK's previous commitment of 12.8 billion pounds in aid. The visit occurs amidst uncertainty over future U.S. support for Ukraine under Trump's administration.