UK and Ukraine Sign Historic 100-Year Security Agreement
Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledges to provide a “mobile air defence system” and enhance maritime cooperation with Ukraine.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has reaffirmed the UK's commitment to Ukraine, promising to work alongside Kyiv and its allies to establish strong security guarantees should a ceasefire be reached with Russia. This announcement comes just days before U.S. President-elect Donald Trump assumes office.
During a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv on Thursday, Starmer unveiled a “100-year partnership” agreement aimed at deepening ties between the two nations.
On his first visit to Ukraine since assuming office in July, Starmer described the UK-Ukraine relationship as “closer than ever.”
Trump, who will take office on Monday, has repeatedly pledged to end the nearly three-year-long war in Ukraine, even suggesting possible territorial concessions to Russia.
Starmer, however, emphasized that any peace agreement must ensure Ukraine’s security and sovereignty.
Zelenskyy, who has urged Western allies to maintain military support for Ukraine, hailed the agreement as “truly historic.”
A Landmark Agreement for the Future
The UK has been one of Ukraine’s most significant military supporters, having pledged £12.8 billion ($16 billion) in aid since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022.
The newly signed agreement encompasses a wide range of sectors, including defence, energy, and trade. Starmer emphasized that it “reflects the deep bond between our two nations.”
Under the deal, London and Kyiv committed to “deepen defence cooperation” and strengthen Ukraine’s defence industry, recognizing it as a “future NATO ally.”
Starmer also announced plans to provide Ukraine with a “mobile air defence system” and enhance maritime security in the Baltic Sea, Black Sea, and Sea of Azov.
Various agreements forming part of the 100-year partnership are expected to be brought before the UK Parliament in the coming weeks.
“The strength of our long-term alliances cannot be overstated,” Starmer said ahead of his meeting with Zelenskyy.
He stressed that supporting Ukraine’s defence against Russian aggression and rebuilding its independence remains a crucial priority.
“Through this partnership, we are fostering a strong economy that benefits the British people, ensuring national security at home and abroad, and building a prosperous future,” Starmer added.
“Together, we have signed a landmark agreement, the first of its kind, symbolizing the enduring friendship between the UK and Ukraine,” Starmer concluded during his press conference in Kyiv.