UK (Washington Insider Magazine)—British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has signed a new security agreement with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a visit to Kyiv, announcing an increase in military funding for the war-torn nation.
Britain, a key ally of Ukraine amid the ongoing Russian invasion, will boost its support in the next financial year to £2.5 billion ($3.2 billion), marking a £200 million ($255 million) increase over the previous two years, Sunak stated on Friday.
The funding will cover essential military supplies, including long-range missiles, air defense systems, artillery ammunition, and maritime security.
“Our opponents around the world believe that we have neither the patience nor resources for long wars, so waver now, and we embolden not just [Russian President Vladimir] Putin, but his allies in North Korea, Iran, and elsewhere,” Sunak warned at a press conference.
An Unprecedented Security Agreement
Zelenskyy described the accord as an “unprecedented security agreement” that will remain effective until Ukraine joins NATO. “This is not simply a declaration; it is a reality that will come to fruition as a result of our cooperation,” he said, emphasizing the importance of security commitments from the UK. He added that if such guarantees had been provided after 1991, there would have been no Russian aggression.
Both leaders stressed that ensuring Ukraine’s security was critical to preventing future attacks. “If Putin wins in Ukraine, he will not stop there,” Sunak warned, urging Western allies to maintain their support.
Britain’s Role in Military Aid
As the second-largest donor of military aid to Ukraine after the U.S., Britain has provided a total of £4.6 billion ($3.3 billion) in 2022 and 2023. Sunak affirmed the UK’s commitment, stating, “I am here today with one message: The UK will also not falter. We will stand with Ukraine in their darkest hours and in the better times to come.”
Sunak’s visit comes as Russia intensifies its efforts to replenish its weapons amid a protracted conflict. Both sides are seeking artillery shells, missiles, and drones, with Kyiv alleging that Moscow is receiving military supplies from North Korea and Iran.
Continued Push for Support
Zelenskyy has been actively rallying support from Western allies, recently visiting the Baltic states to secure additional military pledges. He emphasized the urgent need for air defense systems to counter recent Russian aerial strikes, which have launched over 500 drones and missiles against Ukraine in a short period.
While the UK’s commitment to Ukraine remains strong, support for the war effort is facing challenges elsewhere. A $60 billion aid package proposed by U.S. President Joe Biden is currently stalled in Congress, and Europe’s goal of delivering 1 million artillery shells by March has fallen short, with only about 300,000 delivered by the end of last year.
