UK Signs 100-Year Partnership Deal with Ukraine to Strengthen Security and Support
Kyiv, Ukraine – Prime Minister Keir Starmer has signed a historic 100-year partnership agreement with Ukraine, pledging continued support across various sectors, including military aid, economic recov
Kyiv, Ukraine – Prime Minister Keir Starmer has signed a historic 100-year partnership agreement with Ukraine, pledging continued support across various sectors, including military aid, economic recovery, and technological collaboration. The agreement, which aims to guarantee Ukraine’s security once the war with Russia ends, signals a long-term commitment from the UK to its European ally.
During his first visit to Kyiv since taking office, Starmer addressed a press conference on Thursday, outlining the UK’s pledge to work with Ukraine and its allies toward a "just and lasting peace" that will secure Ukraine’s independence and future. “We will work with you and all of our allies on steps that would be robust enough to guarantee Ukraine’s security,” Starmer said. He added that these discussions would continue for several months.
Starmer's comments came as air raid sirens and explosions were heard over Kyiv, a stark reminder of the ongoing threats Ukraine faces from Russian aggression. In response, Starmer remarked, "It makes it real for us. It's an everyday threat Ukraine is facing with incredible resolve and determination."
Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the UK has provided significant financial and military support to Ukraine, totaling £12.8 billion ($15.6 billion). The UK is the third-largest aid donor to Ukraine, following Germany and the United States.
Key Aspects of the 100-Year Deal
The new partnership deal between the UK and Ukraine is expected to strengthen military collaboration, particularly in the Baltic, Black, and Azov seas, to deter further Russian aggression. While Starmer did not confirm the deployment of UK troops to Ukraine, he pledged an annual £3 billion ($3.6 billion) in military aid for as long as it takes. Additionally, £40 million ($48.7 million) will be allocated to Ukraine’s economic recovery program, although the timeline for disbursement remains unclear.
"This is not just about the here and now; it’s about an investment in our two countries for the next century," Starmer said. "This partnership will bring together technology development, scientific advances, and cultural exchanges, harnessing the innovation Ukraine has shown in recent years."
The UK Parliament is expected to review and approve the agreement in the coming weeks.
Expert Analysis: Significance of the Long-Term Commitment
Benjamin Martill, a senior lecturer in politics and international relations at Edinburgh University, described the deal as "very significant," particularly given the century-long timeframe. He noted that while the UK has many bilateral agreements, few extend this far into the future. "This is clearly designed to send a strong signal, especially in light of uncertainties surrounding US support for Ukraine," he said, referencing concerns about US policy under President-elect Donald Trump.
Martill also predicted that the deal is likely to pass through Parliament, as there has been consistent cross-party support for Ukraine’s cause, even from the previous Conservative government.
Zelenskyy Praises UK’s Long-Term Commitment
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed strong approval of the partnership, stating that relations between Ukraine and the UK are now "closer than ever." In his evening address, Zelenskyy also suggested that this agreement could serve as a model for other countries. He highlighted the potential for the pact to assist in various sectors, including education, technology, and more. He also alluded to a "classified, secret part" of the agreement, without providing further details.
Possible Role of British Troops
Ahead of the agreement’s announcement, Zelenskyy had discussed with Starmer the possibility of deploying Western troops to Ukraine for a potential ceasefire monitoring mission. When asked about the prospect of peacekeeping forces, Starmer did not commit but emphasized that the UK would continue to support Ukraine in every way possible.
“We have always been one of the leading countries in relation to the defense of Ukraine,” Starmer stated, adding that discussions on a peacekeeping force have been ongoing with international allies, including French President Emmanuel Macron.
Impact on Ukraine’s Other Allies
Experts believe that the UK’s bold move could encourage other Western nations to increase their support for Ukraine. Martill noted that the UK had already taken a leading role by supplying Western-made battle tanks to Kyiv in 2023, signaling to other European nations that more is needed. The deal also sends a clear message to Russian President Vladimir Putin that the West is committed to Ukraine's long-term security.
As the war continues, the UK’s agreement with Ukraine marks a significant milestone in the ongoing global efforts to support Ukraine’s resistance against Russian aggression and its path toward recovery and independence.
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