Ukraine’s President has flown to the UK on Wednesday to thank Britain for its “big support” and try to increase military support for Ukraine. Zelenskyy’s first surprise visit to the UK comes after the one he made to Washington, DC, in late December last year.
In his trademark green military outfit President Zelenskyy stepped on a tarmac and was greeted at Stansted Airport by PM Rishi Sunak. They then traveled to No 10, where they walked on the red carpet. Sunak said that “no matter who’s in power,” Ukraine will have Britain’s support.
“Thank you so much, we are proud, and we have very good relations with the British, and I think the dialogue is very important, very important for the security of our country and the world,” Zelenskyy thanked Rishi.
Once they stepped inside the Downing Street flat, Sunak has offered Zelenskyy breakfast.
As Ukraine reaches the war’s first anniversary, Zelenskyy is trying to rally more international support to prevent a lack of momentum. In his speech in the Westminster Hall of the UK Parliament, President Zelenskyy repeated his call for the UK to send modern fighter jets to Ukraine. Sunak said he wants to see Ukraine on the battlefield “victorious” this year, signaling that the end of the war is nowhere near.
The UK government confirmed that they would train the Ukrainian fighter jet pilots and marines, which many understand as a signal that the Western alliance will green-light the jets down the line.
“Today we are going even further, not just having provided tanks, but also to train their pilots on advanced combat aircraft,” said PM Rishi Sunak.
The Prime Minister’s Questions
At the Prime Minister’s Question, Labour Leader Kier Starmer wanted to know if there is a bipartisan support for bringing Putin to The Hague.
“Does the Prime Minister agree with me that when the war in Ukraine is over, Vladimir Putin and all his cronies must stand at the Hague and face justice?, ” Kier Starmer wanted to know.
“One of the things I discussed with President Zelenskyy this morning was the work of the ICC, where thanks to UK members, I am hopeful we will have the first indictments shortly,” responded Sunak.
After his visit to the UK, Zelenskyy will travel to meet with the EU leaders.
