KYIV, Ukraine — In a significant show of solidarity, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy formalized a 100-year partnership agreement on Thursday. This commitment aims to support Ukraine’s resilience as it continues to face challenges in its ongoing conflict with Russia, a situation that has persisted for nearly three years.
This announcement arrives just days before Donald Trump’s inauguration as U.S. President, a time marked by uncertainty over America’s military responsibilities in Europe and Trump’s stated desire to address the continent’s most extensive conflict since World War II.
During his visit to Kyiv, Starmer reassured Zelenskyy that the United Kingdom stands firmly with Ukraine for the long term. “We are with you not just today or tomorrow, for this year or the next, but for 100 years — long after this terrible war is over and Ukraine is free and thriving once again,” he stated, emphasizing the U.K.’s role in ensuring Ukraine’s safety post-war.
Starmer highlighted that the groundbreaking agreement focuses on cooperation in defense, particularly concerning maritime security in the Baltic Sea, Black Sea, and Sea of Azov, as well as advancing technology projects such as drone development, which have proven to be crucial in the conflict. Additionally, the accord includes measures to track Ukrainian grain that has been illegally exported by Russia from occupied territories.
The growing ties between Ukraine and the West, coupled with discussions around possible NATO membership, have drawn ire from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who seeks to maintain influence over Ukraine.
While Starmer met Zelenskyy, Ukrainian air defenses intercepted Russian drones, with debris falling in at least four locations in Kyiv. One piece landed near the Baroque palace where the leaders were convening, serving as a stark reminder of the ongoing threats that the Ukrainian populace faces.
This trip marks Starmer’s first visit to Ukraine since taking office in July, though he noted it was his seventh engagement with Zelenskyy. The Italian defense minister was also in Kyiv, following visits from the German defense chief and a phone call between Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron just days earlier.
In light of Trump’s expected shift in U.S. policy regarding Ukraine, Kyiv’s allies are racing to bolster support for Ukraine, aiming to fortify its position before potential negotiations to resolve the ongoing invasion that began on February 24, 2022. There are concerns that Trump’s proposals might require Ukraine to make uncomfortable concessions, including territorial compromises. Zelenskyy has called for strong security assurances to deter any future Russian aggression.
Starmer emphasized, “We must look at how this war could end, the practical ways to get a just and lasting peace … that guarantees your security, your independence and your right to choose your own future.” Zelenskyy mentioned that they discussed Macron’s suggestion for deploying Western troops to oversee a future ceasefire, but he noted it may be premature to delve into specifics.
Starmer left the possibility of U.K. involvement open, indicating collaboration with allies would continue to ensure robust security for Ukraine. “Those conversations will continue for many months ahead,” he said. Zelenskyy has previously floated the idea of a peacekeeping force comprising Baltic nations, France, and Poland, but clarified that any security solution must include the United States, which plays a crucial role in military support for Ukraine.
Starmer committed to increasing military support to Ukraine in 2025, mentioning that the U.K. has already earmarked £3 billion (approximately $3.6 billion) for military assistance this year, including a supply of artillery and an advanced mobile air defense system dubbed Gravehawk. Overall, the U.K. has pledged £12.8 billion ($15.6 billion) in military and civilian support since the onset of the conflict.
During his one-day visit, Starmer and Zelenskyy paid their respects at a memorial dedicated to those who have fallen in the conflict. The wall, located near St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery, features numerous photographs of victims and serves as a place of remembrance for families seeking to honor their lost loved ones.
Starmer also visited a burn treatment hospital in Kyiv and attended an exhibition showcasing drone technology. As the war approaches its third anniversary, both Russia and Ukraine are eager to secure tactical advantages ahead of any forthcoming peace discussions. Ukraine has launched a secondary offensive in Russia’s Kursk region while intensifying drone and missile strikes against military targets in Russia.
Meanwhile, Russia is gradually gaining territory, albeit with significant casualties incurred along the extensive frontline in eastern Ukraine, while also intensifying attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, attempting to hinder access to power and heat during the harsh winter months. A recent wave of missile assaults across Ukraine prompted power outages in various regions, underscoring the ongoing strife and its impact on civilians.
