London (TDI): United Kingdom’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced a deal to exchange battlefield technology and co-manufacture cutting-edge military drones, on Monday.
The agreement, announced during Zelensky’s unscheduled visit to London, is to accelerate Ukraine’s defense systems as the conflict with Russia continues beyond recent attempts by President Trump to negotiate a ceasefire.Â
The two leaders met at 10 Downing Street, prior to the NATO summit in The Hague, where European security and the rise in defense spending will top the agenda.
As per the agreement, Ukraine front-line data sets will be incorporated into UK production lines, thereby enabling British defense firms to quickly develop and mass-produce innovative, high-tech military equipment, which is specifically designed to meet the current needs of the battlefield.
In a statement issued by Starmer’s office, “Early deals between defense companies in both countries are to be announced in the coming weeks, with a view to sending Ukraine large quantities of battle-hardened drones to continue to push back Russia’s cruel invasion in the coming months and years.”
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As he received President Zelensky at Downing Street, Starmer termed the meeting “an excellent bilateral,” adding, “It’s really a privilege, a pleasure to welcome President Zelensky, a regular now at Downing Street.” He also lauded the Ukrainian soldiers being trained in the United Kingdom, calling it “really humbling to witness their professionalism, commitment, and bravery.”Â
Zelensky, who earlier met King Charles III at Windsor Castle, expressed gratitude for the support provided by the United Kingdom.
“We are very thankful to the UK for such massive support of Ukraine since the start of this war,” he told the BBC, adding that the training of more than 50,000 Ukrainian soldiers in the UK has played a significant role in allowing Ukraine to “survive and fight.”
The UK has been one of the most consistent Ukrainian partners since the Russian invasion in February 2022, offering military assistance, imposing sanctions on Moscow, and diplomatic efforts on global fronts.Â
As the NATO leaders prepare to gather in The Hague, Starmer has reaffirmed his country’s long-standing backing of Ukraine, committing to support “for the duration of the conflict,” to provide Kyiv with the ability to negotiate any ceasefire from “the strongest possible position,” as official statements have suggested.Â
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