Thu Jan 16 08:46:50 UTC 2025: ## UK Pledges Century-Long Partnership with Ukraine Amidst Looming Trump Presidency

**KYIV, Ukraine –** British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Kyiv on Thursday, announcing a landmark “100-Year Partnership” treaty with Ukraine, aimed at guaranteeing the country’s security for the next century. The deal, signed with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, covers defense, science, energy, and trade, and includes £40 million in additional aid for Ukraine’s post-war economic recovery.

Starmer’s unannounced visit comes days before Donald Trump’s inauguration as U.S. President, raising concerns about the future of American support for Ukraine. Trump has expressed skepticism about the cost of U.S. aid and a desire for a swift end to the conflict, prompting allies to rush aid to Ukraine before his presidency.

The UK’s commitment builds upon its existing substantial support, including £12.8 billion in military and civilian aid since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion three years ago, and the training of over 50,000 Ukrainian troops. The 100-year partnership focuses on bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities, particularly maritime security against Russian aggression in the Black and Azov Seas, and technological cooperation, including drone technology. It also includes a system to track stolen Ukrainian grain exported by Russia.

While praising the UK’s commitment, Starmer acknowledged the uncertainties surrounding future U.S. involvement. Zelenskyy emphasized the need for security assurances in any future peace negotiations, highlighting the treaty as a crucial step toward that goal. The two leaders also discussed a French proposal to station Western troops in Ukraine to oversee a ceasefire, a proposal Zelenskyy links to a timeline for Ukraine’s NATO accession.

The visit underscores the intensified efforts by Ukraine’s allies to bolster its position before potential peace talks, with both Ukraine launching a new offensive in the Kursk region and Russia continuing its attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure. The ongoing conflict, nearing its three-year mark, continues to exact a heavy toll on both sides.

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