The United Kingdom is planning to transform its relations with Ukraine into a long-term strategic partnership. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the UK aims to extend its support to Ukraine beyond the current conflict, solidifying this commitment through a partnership plan that spans the next century. The proposed 100-year treaty encompasses a comprehensive strategy for post-war reconstruction, economic development, and the strengthening of Ukraine’s democratic institutions.
Starmer’s approach not only seeks to ensure Ukraine’s prominent position within the international community but also reinforces the UK’s strategic role in Europe. This initiative reflects a steadfast commitment to Ukraine’s territorial integrity and a long-term pledge to building peace in Europe.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the UK’s support for Ukraine would go beyond the war, formalized in a 100-year partnership agreement between the two nations. During his first official visit to Kyiv as Prime Minister, Starmer stated that the agreement represents the deep ties between the two countries. His visit starkly illustrated the daily attacks Ukraine endures. While meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky at the presidential palace, a Russian drone flew overhead, activating air defense systems. Although no casualties were reported, debris from the intercepted drone damaged a vehicle[1]
Starmer highlighted that this attack serves as a reminder of the challenges Ukrainians face daily. He also emphasized Russian President Vladimir Putin’s persistent aggression and praised Ukraine’s resilience in the face of adversity. Zelensky, for his part, mentioned Ukraine’s progress toward NATO membership but acknowledged resistance from the United States, Germany, Slovakia, and Hungary.[2]
The 100-year partnership agreement outlines an annual £3 billion support package from the UK, increased military training for Ukrainian forces, the provision of air defense systems, and the delivery of 150 artillery barrels produced by Sheffield Forgemasters. Starmer clarified that the partnership aims not only to bolster military aid but also to strengthen economic ties in areas such as science, technology, and culture. Additionally, the UK has pledged £40 million in economic aid to support Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction.[3]
Starmer and Zelensky visited St. Michael’s Monastery in Kyiv to lay flowers in memory of soldiers who lost their lives in the war.[4] They also visited a hospital in Kyiv to meet with wounded soldiers and examined the building where scientists killed in a drone attack on January 1 were located. Zelensky stated that this attack was Russia’s attempt to show that “no one is safe.”
Russia continues to escalate its attacks rather than retreating from Ukraine. Putin’s demands include the handover of four Ukrainian regions annexed in 2022, a veto over Ukraine’s NATO membership, and the establishment of a pro-Moscow government in Kyiv. Meanwhile, the prospect of Donald Trump returning to the U.S. presidency has introduced uncertainty regarding the war’s future. Reports suggest Trump plans to end U.S. military support for Ukraine and accelerate peace talks with Moscow. Although Starmer refrained from directly commenting on this, he emphasized the critical importance of U.S. support for Ukraine.
Despite setbacks in Ukraine’s eastern front, Zelensky expressed confidence that stability could be restored, as it has been on other fronts. Starmer reaffirmed his belief that Ukraine would ultimately reclaim its sovereignty and freedom. This long-term partnership not only aims to strengthen Ukraine’s defense but also contributes to Europe’s broader security. The agreement envisions deep cooperation in areas such as defense, technology, and Ukraine’s reconstruction. Starmer underscored the UK’s role in ensuring Ukraine’s freedom and security.
The treaty also includes initiatives to enhance maritime security against Russian activities in the Baltic, Black, and Azov Seas and to collaborate on drone technology projects.[5] Furthermore, a system will be established to track Ukrainian grain illegally exported from Russian-occupied territories. Starmer remarked that Ukraine’s progress toward NATO membership has unsettled Putin.
During Starmer’s visit, Russian drone attacks on Kyiv occurred, once again highlighting the hardships Ukrainians face. Starmer acknowledged the attacks as a testament to Ukraine’s determination and resilience. Zelensky emphasized that security guarantees could only be achieved with the involvement of the United States. The timing of Starmer’s visit, which occurred shortly before Donald Trump’s inauguration, aligned with a period when Western allies were stepping up their support for Ukraine. Zelensky noted the uncertainty surrounding Trump’s presidency and stressed that security guarantees must prevent future Russian aggression, suggesting the UK could play a key role.
In conclusion, Keir Starmer announced that the UK would significantly increase its support for Ukraine as of 2025. This support includes new military aid packages such as air defense systems and artillery barrels to enhance Ukraine’s security. The agreement also envisions economic aid for post-war reconstruction, the development of infrastructure projects, and the integration of modern technologies. Additionally, the partnership seeks to advance cooperation in scientific research, energy efficiency, green energy projects, and cultural exchange. This comprehensive collaboration plan aims to address not only Ukraine’s immediate needs but also its long-term development goals.
[1] Luke Harding, “UK to back Ukraine ‘beyond this terrible war’ with 100-year pact, says Starmer”, The Guardian, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jan/16/uk-back-ukraine-beyond-terrible-war-100-year-pact-keir-starmer, (Date of Access: 16.01.2025).
[2] Ibid.
[3] Ibid.
[4] Ibid.
[5] Sarah Rainsford & Henry Zeffman, “UK will ‘never let up’ on Ukraine support, says Starmer”, BBC, https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgem31jekvo, (Date of Access: 16.01.2025).
