Sir Keir Starmer is conducting his final trip to Ukraine as prime minister, using the visit to reassure President Volodymyr Zelensky of the United Kingdom's "cast-iron" support for the nation. The meeting in Kyiv comes just days before Starmer concludes his time in Downing Street, with Andy Burnham set to be installed as the new Labour leader and prime minister on Monday.
Reflecting on the conflict that began with Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, Starmer praised the "fortitude" of the Ukrainian people, noting that their resilience has been essential in preserving European security.
During his two years in office, Starmer emphasized that his administration focused not only on immediate assistance but on building long-term foundations for Ukraine's security and success.
This strategy included the signing of a 100-year partnership agreement to strengthen trade and defense ties, alongside efforts to establish a future peacekeeping force.
Starmer highlighted that the UK has increased its investment in defense and has been at the forefront of developing future war-fighting technologies. He stated that the UK has successfully united with allies, as demonstrated during recent G7 and Nato summits, to maintain a firm stance against Russian aggression.
As part of these efforts, the UK is providing 150 British-made artillery barrels to Ukraine under a £61 million contract with BAE Systems.
The visit occurs amidst ongoing Russian strikes, with recent attacks targeting port infrastructure in Odesa. Kremlin officials claimed to have hit facilities used for unloading petroleum, oil, and lubricants, while reports indicate that eight people were killed following strikes on Black Sea oil tankers.
Meanwhile, President Zelensky continues to lobby Nato for enhanced air defense systems. Following a recent meeting with US President Donald Trump, Zelensky was granted permission to produce Patriot missiles, a development expected to bolster Kyiv's defense against ballistic missile attacks.
During his final Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons on Wednesday, Starmer received praise from Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch for his dedication to the Ukrainian cause. Recalling his time in office, Starmer described an emotional meeting with Zelensky at Downing Street, which took place shortly after the Ukrainian leader's high-profile discussions with President Trump in February 2025.
Starmer reiterated his commitment to the partnership, stating, "I am so proud of what Britain has contributed. That work will continue, and our cast-iron support for Ukraine will always endure."
