Fri Jan 17 05:49:08 UTC 2025: ## UK and Ukraine Forge 100-Year Partnership Amidst Looming US Shift
**Kyiv, Ukraine** – In a show of unwavering support for Ukraine, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer signed a landmark 100-year partnership agreement with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday. The agreement, focusing on defense cooperation and technological advancements, comes as the war with Russia nears its three-year mark and a potential shift in US policy under incoming President Donald Trump looms large.
The partnership commits both nations to long-term collaboration on defense, particularly maritime security, and technological projects, including drone technology – a crucial element in the ongoing conflict. The agreement also includes a system to track stolen Ukrainian grain exported by Russia.
Starmer’s visit, his first to Ukraine since assuming office, coincided with a flurry of diplomatic activity from European allies, underscoring concerns over Trump’s incoming administration. Trump has expressed skepticism about America’s military commitment in Europe and hinted at a plan to end the conflict, potentially involving concessions from Ukraine that Kyiv fears would be unacceptable.
While Starmer and Zelenskyy met, Russian drone attacks targeted Kyiv, serving as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat. The UK Prime Minister reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to providing Ukraine with more military support than ever before in 2025, building on the £12.8 billion already pledged in military and civilian aid.
Zelenskyy acknowledged the need for a just and lasting peace, while emphasizing the importance of security guarantees to deter future Russian aggression. He highlighted ongoing discussions regarding potential peacekeeping forces, stressing the vital role of the United States in any such arrangement. Starmer echoed this sentiment, emphasizing continued collaboration with the US.
The agreement comes amidst escalating tensions, with both Ukraine launching a new offensive in Russia’s Kursk region and Russia continuing its attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure. The intensified diplomatic efforts by Ukraine’s allies reflect a race against time to bolster Ukraine’s position before potential peace negotiations under a potentially less supportive US administration.
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