Thu Jan 16 16:54:20 UTC 2025: ## UK Pledges Long-Term Support for Ukraine, Including Mobile Air Defence System

**Kyiv, Ukraine** – British Prime Minister Keir Starmer concluded a landmark visit to Kyiv Thursday, announcing a historic 100-year partnership agreement with Ukraine and pledging significant new military aid. The agreement, described as “truly historic” by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, comes days before the anticipated return of a US administration seen as potentially less supportive of Ukraine’s long-term security.

Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s security and independence, emphasizing that any ceasefire agreement must guarantee these principles. He explicitly rejected the possibility of territorial concessions to Russia. This stance directly counters the previously expressed willingness of President-elect Donald Trump to cede Ukrainian land.

The new partnership will focus on defense, energy, and trade. Key components of the military support package include the delivery of a mobile air defense system and enhanced maritime cooperation in the Baltic, Black Sea, and Sea of Azov. The agreement also recognizes Ukraine as a future NATO ally and pledges to deepen defense cooperation and bolster Ukraine’s defense industry.

Britain has already provided £12.8 billion ($16 billion) in military and civilian aid since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. The 100-year agreement represents a significant deepening of this commitment, reflecting what Starmer described as the “huge affection” between the two nations. Various treaties forming part of the agreement will be presented to the UK Parliament in the coming weeks.

Starmer’s visit underscores the UK’s continued dedication to supporting Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression and its long-term recovery. The announcement of the 100-year partnership and the new military aid package serves as a powerful demonstration of Western resolve in the face of potential shifts in global geopolitical dynamics.

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