Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived at No. 10 Downing Street to discuss the ongoing conflict with Russia with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Zelensky is set to become the first foreign leader to address the UK Cabinet in person since 1997.
The visit comes as Zelensky gains approval to use UK-supplied Storm Shadow cruise missiles against targets within Russia. This approval was highlighted by John Healey, who confirmed the UK’s commitment to funding Ukrainian military until at least the end of the decade. Healey emphasized that Ukraine could use these weapons within the bounds of international humanitarian law.
Sir Keir Starmer expressed the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine, stating, “It’s a very special moment for us to reiterate our support for you and the Ukrainian people in the fight against Russian aggression.” Zelensky’s visit marks the first official visit to Downing Street under Starmer’s leadership and follows the European Political Community (EPC) summit at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire. At the summit, 44 countries and the EU agreed to target “shadow fleet” of tankers evading sanctions on Russian oil.
During his visit, Zelensky is expected to brief UK ministers on the situation in Ukraine, emphasizing the need to expand Europe’s military industrial base. Additionally, he aims to secure a £3.5 billion ($4.5 billion) defense export finance deal with the UK.
Speaking ahead of the meeting, Zelensky stressed the need for “strong support” from Starmer, pushing for the use of British long-range missiles against Russia. This aligns with discussions during the recent NATO summit, where Starmer suggested the potential use of these missiles, although Downing Street later clarified that the policy had not changed.
Zelensky’s visit symbolizes strengthening ties between UK’s newly elected government and Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict with Russia.
