British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Ukraine’s capital on Thursday with a historic pledge to secure Ukraine’s future, days before Donald Trump’s inauguration as U.S. president raises questions about continued American support for the war-torn nation.
During his unannounced visit to Kyiv, Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are set to sign a groundbreaking “100-Year Partnership” treaty. The agreement, covering defense, science, energy, and trade, underscores the U.K.’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and postwar recovery.
The U.K. has been a steadfast supporter of Ukraine, providing £12.8 billion ($16 billion) in military and civilian aid and training over 50,000 Ukrainian troops since Russia’s full-scale invasion began three years ago. On this visit, Starmer announced an additional £40 million ($49 million) for Ukraine’s economic recovery.
"This is not just about the here and now," Starmer stated. "It is an investment in our two countries for the next century, fostering technology, scientific advances, and cultural exchanges."
The treaty focuses on bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities, particularly maritime security in the Baltic Sea, Black Sea, and Sea of Azov, and includes provisions for technology development, such as drone projects. It also addresses Russia’s theft of Ukrainian grain by establishing a tracking system.
Zelenskyy hailed the partnership as a critical step in securing Ukraine’s future against Russian aggression. "This agreement ensures that Ukraine is never again vulnerable to the kind of brutality inflicted on us by Russia," he said.
The visit comes amid uncertainty about the U.S.'s future role in supporting Ukraine. President-elect Donald Trump has signaled reluctance to continue extensive aid and has expressed plans to negotiate directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Kyiv’s allies, including the U.K., are rushing to solidify Ukraine’s position ahead of Trump’s inauguration.
Zelenskyy and Starmer are also expected to discuss a proposal by French President Emmanuel Macron to station Western troops in Ukraine as part of a ceasefire agreement. Zelenskyy has emphasized that such measures must align with Ukraine’s timeline for NATO membership.
Meanwhile, the conflict grinds on, with both Russia and Ukraine intensifying military efforts. Ukraine has launched a second offensive in Russia's Kursk region and ramped up drone and missile strikes on Russian targets. In response, Moscow continues its devastating attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, leaving parts of the country without power during harsh winter conditions.
As the war approaches its third year, the 100-Year Partnership treaty signals a bold and enduring alliance between Ukraine and the U.K., offering hope for a secure and resilient future for the embattled nation.