KYIV, (TDI): Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer signed a landmark 100-year partnership agreement on Thursday to strengthen bilateral relations, focusing on defense cooperation and military assistance.
The agreement underscores Britain’s steadfast support for Ukraine amidst ongoing tensions with Russia, Ukrainian state media reported.
“Today is a truly historic day. Relations between Ukraine and the United Kingdom are closer than ever. We have reached a new level — this is more than a strategic partnership. We have signed a 100-year partnership agreement,” Zelensky announced.
The pact aims to enhance defense collaboration and guarantees continued military aid to Ukraine, according to the Ukrainian National News Agency, Ukrinform.
UK Pledges Robust Security Guarantees
During his visit to Kyiv, Starmer pledged comprehensive security guarantees should a ceasefire with Russia be reached. This marked his first visit to Ukraine since assuming office in July last year.
“We will work with you and all of our allies on steps that would be robust enough to guarantee Ukraine’s security, independence, and right to choose its own future,” Starmer said at a press conference alongside Zelensky. He added that discussions on these measures would continue for months to come but refrained from providing specific details.
Zelensky highlighted Ukraine’s interest in deploying Western peacekeeping troops to ensure stability in the event of a peace agreement.
European Leaders Seek Unified Security Strategy
Starmer’s visit follows that of German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius earlier in the week, as European leaders deliberate on the nature of security guarantees they can provide Ukraine as part of any future peace deal.
Also Read: Ukraine Launches Biggest Aerial Strike on Russia
The potential return of Donald Trump to the White House has raised concerns among European allies and Ukrainian officials. There are fears that Trump’s approach to ending the conflict could pressure Ukraine to make significant territorial concessions to Russia, a scenario Kyiv and its allies are eager to avoid.
Starmer reiterated Britain’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in pursuing a “just and lasting peace” that ensures its sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing that the UK remains a steadfast ally in Ukraine’s struggle.
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This landmark agreement, hailed as a pivotal step in UK-Ukraine relations, solidifies long-term support for Ukraine amid ongoing geopolitical challenges in the region.
