LONDON: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Saturday (Mar 1) gave Volodymyr Zelenskyy a heat welcome in London, a day after the Ukrainian chief’s clash with US President Donald Trump.
And forward of Sunday’s summit in London to debate the best way to help Ukraine because it battles Russia’s invading forces, Starmer reiterated his help for Kyiv.
“In partnership with our allies, we should intensify our preparations for the European aspect of safety ensures alongside continued discussions with america,” he stated in an announcement issued late Saturday.
“Now could be the time for us to unite with a view to assure the very best final result for Ukraine, defend European safety, and safe our collective future,” he added.
Hours earlier, Ukraine and the UK unveiled a £2.26 billion (US$2.84 billion) mortgage settlement to help Ukraine’s defence capabilities, to be paid again with the income of immobilised sovereign Russian property.
“The funds will probably be directed towards weapons manufacturing in Ukraine,” Zelensky stated on X.
“That is true justice – the one who began the battle should be the one to pay.”
Supporters cheered as Zelenskyy’s convoy swept into Downing Road, the place he was embraced by Starmer and posed for images earlier than heading contained in the UK chief’s residence.
“You are very, very welcome right here in Downing Road,” Starmer advised Zelenskyy.
“And as you have heard from the cheers avenue exterior, you will have full backing throughout the UK, and we stand with you with Ukraine for so long as it could take”.
“I need to thanks, the individuals of the UK, for such massive help from the very starting of this battle,” Zelenskyy responded.
He is because of meet King Charles III on Sunday.
The pair met behind closed doorways for round 75 minutes, and embraced once more as Starmer escorted Zelenskyy to his automobile.
