Ukraine and the UK signed a “100-Year Partnership” agreement on Thursday to enhance defense collaboration and address long-term maritime security challenges, coinciding with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s first visit to Kyiv since taking office last year.
“Today marks a historic milestone. The relationship between Ukraine and the UK is stronger than ever. We’ve elevated it to a new level — beyond a strategic partnership, to a 100-year agreement,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced at a joint news conference with Starmer.
Zelenskyy highlighted the agreement’s provision of $3.6 billion in annual military aid to Kyiv, emphasizing it would continue “as long as necessary.” He also mentioned an additional $3 billion from frozen Russian assets would be allocated.
He detailed that the Russia-Ukraine war has cost Kyiv approximately $100 billion over the past year, with $40 billion from Ukraine’s budget, and $35 billion and $25 billion contributed by the US and Europe, respectively.
“This shows the strength of our union and Ukraine’s significant contribution,” Zelenskyy said, reiterating his commitment to a “peace through strength” strategy, with no intention to reduce Ukraine’s military size.
On security guarantees, Zelenskyy noted that a peacekeeping contingent could be part of the solution but stressed that discussions with the US are crucial to determining the future security structure for Ukraine.
Starmer affirmed the UK’s long-term support, stating, “We stand with you not just for today or tomorrow, but for 100 years, until Ukraine is free and thriving.”
The agreement, revealed by Ukraine’s Presidential Office, aims to bolster defense cooperation and address enduring maritime security threats. It also seeks to enhance collaboration in economics, trade, energy, climate change, and clean energy transitions.
