Outgoing British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer has reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s long-term commitment to Ukraine, declaring that British support for Kyiv’s defence against Russia will remain “unwavering” even as the country prepares for a change in political leadership.
During his final official visit to Ukraine before leaving office, Starmer travelled to the capital, Kyiv, where he met President Volodymyr Zelensky and announced a new military support package worth £255 million (€300 million).
The announcement includes funding for 16 modern Swedish-made Gripen fighter aircraft, reinforcing Britain’s position as one of Ukraine’s most important international military partners.
The visit comes at a symbolic moment for both countries. While Ukraine continues to defend itself against Russia’s full-scale invasion, Britain is preparing for a transition in government following Labour’s leadership change. Andy Burnham is expected to succeed Starmer as Labour leader before assuming office as Prime Minister.
Standing alongside President Zelensky, Starmer sought to remove any uncertainty, insisting that Britain’s foreign policy toward Ukraine transcends individual political leaders.
“The fact that there’ll be a new prime minister in days to come doesn’t change that dynamic at all. The resolve of the UK will remain the same – We will not waver.”
Keir Starmer
In addition, Starmer rejected suggestions that continued assistance to Ukraine represented a burden on British taxpayers, arguing instead that Ukraine’s resistance has helped safeguard the security of Europe as a whole.
“Anyone who thinks that Ukraine is somehow a drain is just plain wrong – The truth is Ukraine’s stand has preserved European security.”
Keir Starmer
The latest package adds to Britain’s already substantial military support. This year alone, the UK has committed £3 billion in defence assistance, including plans to deliver 150,000 drones, thousands of air defence missiles and expanded training for Ukrainian forces.
According to government officials, the newly announced squadron of 16 Gripen fighter aircraft will improve Ukraine’s air defence, ground strike, and reconnaissance capabilities while also supporting approximately 5,000 highly skilled jobs at more than 50 British defence manufacturing and technology companies.
Starmer also argued that Britain’s assistance to Ukraine has produced domestic economic benefits by accelerating innovation in the country’s defence sector.
He pointed to the rapid development of Britain’s drone industry, describing it as a world-leading capability that had expanded dramatically during the conflict.
Speaking directly to Zelensky, Starmer declared that even after leaving government, he would always have a special place in his heart for Ukraine.He stated that support for Ukraine was “in our bones,” pointing out that more than five years into the conflict, Ukrainian flags are still flying above Downing Street, churches, and town halls around Britain.
“Your fight is our fight, your security is our security, and the UK will not waver. The shift in momentum is real and Ukraine is now in its strongest position since the start of Russia’s full stage invasion.”
Keir Starmer
He added, “bravery takes you through unimaginable hardships but finally – I am certain – it will reward you with victory.”
Zelensky Voices Confidence in Future UK Relations
Starmer’s visit unfolded against a politically sensitive backdrop inside Ukraine, where demonstrations have erupted in several cities following President Zelensky’s unexpected dismissal of Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.
Fedorov, 35, who had been appointed earlier this year and earned praise for spearheading anti-corruption reforms within the defence establishment, was removed from office without a detailed public explanation from the Ukrainian president.
Ukraine’s parliament is expected to confirm Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko as the country’s new defence minister, a move that has generated debate among political observers and members of the public concerned about continuity in defence reforms during wartime.
Despite the domestic political uncertainty, Zelensky emphasised the importance of maintaining Ukraine’s close relationship with Britain as leadership changes unfold in London.
Asked whether he was concerned about new governments emerging in Britain and potentially France next year, the Ukrainian leader acknowledged the uncertainty that accompanies political transitions but expressed confidence in the enduring partnership between the two nations.
“Of course I’m afraid of changes, of course we are afraid because we are in the war each day. But again the priority is the relation between nations, not just between just people.
“I’m sure that these relations will not change, or we have to do our best not to lose such very good relations.”
Volodymyr Zelensky
He added: “I hope we will never lose strong relations with the UK during or after the war.”
The outgoing British leader’s final overseas visit also sends a signal to allies and adversaries alike that Britain’s commitment to Ukraine remains rooted in long-term national policy rather than short-term political considerations.
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