The British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, met with the Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, at Downing Street where he expressed his firm support for Ukraine's sovereignty and security, highlighting the importance of this backing not only for Ukraine but also for Europe and the United Kingdom.
The meeting between the two leaders contrasted with Zelensky's tense visit to the White House the previous day, where there were accusations and tensions with Donald Trump. In contrast, at the meeting in Downing Street, Starmer greeted Zelensky with a brotherly hug, as pro-Ukrainian protesters cheered the passage of the Ukrainian president's convoy.
During the meeting, Starmer reaffirmed the UK's commitment to support Ukraine "for as long as necessary" in the pursuit of lasting peace. Zelensky thanked the British backing and mentioned his subsequent meeting with King Charles I, emphasizing the importance of strategic partners like the United Kingdom.
In contrast, the previous meeting between Zelensky and Trump in the Oval Office was marked by the latter's accusations about Ukraine's reluctance to accept certain peace conditions, which led to the postponement of plans to sign an agreement between the two countries. On the other hand, Zelensky will meet with European leaders at a defense summit in London to discuss Ukraine's future, while thanking the United Kingdom for its support and organization of the summit.
In a gesture of solidarity, Starmer mentioned to Zelensky the presence of British citizens on the street demonstrating their support for the Ukrainian president and for Ukraine, underscoring the importance of this relationship for both nations.
