Rishi Sunak makes a surprise visit to Kiev today where he announces a new package of military aid, security guarantees and humanitarian support.
Mr Sunak will sign an agreement between the UK and Ukraine on security cooperation with the President Volodymyr Zelensky – Commit the UK to provide intelligence sharing, cyber security, medical and military training, and defense industrial cooperation.
Mr Sunak (right) with Volodymyr Zelensky (left) on a previous visit to Ukraine. Photo: AP
The UK will also provide £2.5 billion in military aid Ukraine The Prime Minister announced that in 2024-25, an increase of £200 million on the previous two years.
The package will provide the country with long-range missiles, air defence, artillery munitions and maritime security.
Around £200 million will also be spent on purchasing and producing thousands of military drones.
This will be the largest drone delivery to Ukraine from any country, according to Downing Street. Most of it is expected to be manufactured in the UK.
The Ukrainian president said that his forces particularly need air defense systems to repel Russian air attacks.
More than 500 drones and missiles were launched between December 29 and January 2, according to officials in Kiev.
The agreement comes at a time when the Ukrainian president is pressuring his allies in the West to provide the country with more support to confront it. Russian President Vladimir PutinRussian forces, amid fears that interest in the war will decline as the conflict continues.
The crisis in the Middle East has also shifted global attention away from the conflict, as Israel continues to bomb Gaza – and the United States and Britain. Launching strikes Against military targets linked to the Houthi rebels in Yemen.
Please use Chrome browser for an easily accessible video player
Moments after the Russian strike on Ukraine
Mr. altar He stressed the UK's continued support for Kiev ahead of his meeting with President Zelensky.
He said: “For two years, Ukraine fought with great courage to repel a brutal attack Russian Invade. They are still fighting, steadfast in their determination to defend their country and defend the principles of freedom and democracy.”
“The United Kingdom will not falter either. We will stand with Ukraine in its darkest hours and in the better times ahead,” he added.
“The UK is already one of Ukraine’s closest partners, because we recognize that their security is our security.
“Today we are going further – increasing our military assistance, delivering thousands of advanced drones, and signing a historic new security agreement to provide Ukraine with the guarantees it needs in the long term,” he added.
Read more:
Two people were killed in the latest drone and missile attacks on Ukraine
Russia and Ukraine have exhausted their ammunition, but one of them has a huge advantage
Some of this funding will support organizations such as the UN and the Red Cross to provide humanitarian aid on the frontline, and £8 million will help fortify Ukraine's energy infrastructure against further Russian attacks.
Funding and resources will also be provided for English language training in the country.
Click to subscribe to Sky News Daily wherever you get your podcasts
Mr Sunak made his first visit to Ukraine in November 2022, weeks after entering Number 10.
The United Kingdom was among Ukraine's most vocal supporters, with Zelensky visiting London early last year on a historic trip.
Shadow Defense Secretary John Healey gave Labour's backing for “vital” military funding, writing on the X: “The UK is united in support of Ukraine and against Russian aggression.”
