British Prime Minister Keir Starmer made a surprise visit to Kyiv on Thursday, reaffirming the UK’s long-term commitment to Ukraine’s security and development. His visit comes just days before Donald Trump’s inauguration as U.S. president, an event that has sparked concerns over the future of American support for Ukraine.
During his trip, Starmer met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to sign a landmark “100-Year Partnership” treaty. The agreement spans key areas such as defense, science, energy, and trade, symbolizing the UK’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and stability.
Strengthening Ties Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty
This is Starmer’s first visit to Ukraine since taking office in July, although he had previously traveled there in 2023 as opposition leader. Since becoming prime minister, he has also met with Zelensky twice in London.
His visit coincides with a flurry of diplomatic activity in Kyiv. Italian and German defense officials have also recently met with Ukrainian leaders, while Zelensky has been in talks with French President Emmanuel Macron.
This diplomatic push comes as Trump prepares to take office, with many expecting a shift in U.S. policy. Trump has expressed skepticism over the scale of American aid to Ukraine and has indicated that Europe should take greater responsibility for supporting Kyiv.
Despite growing uncertainty over U.S. support, Starmer made it clear that the UK will not waver in its backing of Ukraine. Speaking upon arrival in Kyiv, he emphasized the importance of continued support, stating, “We’re a long way into this conflict. We mustn’t let up.”
Britain’s Ongoing Support for Ukraine
The UK has been one of Ukraine’s most significant allies since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022. So far, Britain has provided £12.8 billion ($16 billion) in military and civilian aid and has trained over 50,000 Ukrainian troops.
During this visit, Starmer announced an additional £40 million ($49 million) to support Ukraine’s post-war economic recovery. However, while Britain’s contributions have been substantial, they remain overshadowed by the United States, whose financial and military aid has played a crucial role in Ukraine’s defense.
The uncertainty surrounding Trump’s stance on Ukraine has prompted Kyiv’s allies to accelerate their efforts, ensuring Ukraine is in a strong position before any potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy.
A Vision for Ukraine’s Future
Beyond immediate military assistance, the “100-Year Partnership” treaty is designed to secure Ukraine’s long-term future. Key elements of the deal include:
- Defense Cooperation: Enhancing maritime security in the Baltic Sea, Black Sea, and the Sea of Azov, as well as joint technological projects like drone development.
- Tracking Stolen Ukrainian Resources: Establishing a system to monitor and prevent the illegal export of Ukrainian grain from occupied territories.
- Scientific and Cultural Exchange: Strengthening ties between the two nations through collaboration in technology, research, and education.
Speaking ahead of his visit, Starmer said, “Putin’s ambition to wrench Ukraine away from its closest partners has been a monumental strategic failure. Instead, we are closer than ever, and this partnership will take that friendship to the next level.”
Zelensky, meanwhile, emphasized the importance of securing Ukraine’s long-term safety, especially as discussions around peace negotiations gain momentum.
A recent proposal from French President Emmanuel Macron suggests deploying Western troops to oversee a ceasefire, a move Zelensky says should be paired with a concrete timeline for Ukraine’s NATO membership.
A War at a Crossroads
As the war approaches its third year, both Ukraine and Russia are intensifying their military efforts to strengthen their positions ahead of possible peace talks.
Ukraine has launched an offensive in Russia’s Kursk region while increasing drone and missile strikes on Russian military sites. Meanwhile, Russian forces continue to make slow territorial gains in eastern Ukraine, despite suffering heavy casualties. At the same time, Moscow has ramped up missile attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, attempting to cripple the country’s power supply during the harsh winter months.
With the conflict showing no signs of immediate resolution, Ukraine’s alliances will play a critical role in shaping its future. Britain’s long-term commitment signals that, regardless of shifting U.S. policies, Ukraine will not be left to stand alone.
