UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham Sets Kyiv Visit to Bolster Ukraine’s Defence Ties

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to travel to Ukraine on Monday, marking his first overseas trip since assuming office last month.

The Labour leader’s visit coincides with his announcement that the United Kingdom will assist Kyiv in establishing domestic production of long‑range missiles.

The United Kingdom has agreed that defence firm MBDA may release classified information on British‑made components for the SCALP long‑range missile to enable local assembly lines in Ukraine, according to a statement.

Releasing the classified details—covering a missile that incorporates both British and French technology—will enable France and Ukraine to proceed with assembling the weapon in Ukraine.

“This step also supports the UK’s broader initiative to swiftly develop low‑cost, advanced long‑range strike capabilities for Ukraine under Project Brakestop,” the statement added.

Joining French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Burnham will co‑chair the Coalition of the Willing summit, which gathers nations backing Kyiv.

The summit will take place in a hybrid format, allowing some attendees to join in person while others participate via video link.

The office of Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin confirmed his remote participation.

On Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Nordic and Baltic leaders and held bilateral discussions centred on joint defence cooperation.

Zelenskyy also received U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal and James Lankford in Kyiv, briefing them on the ongoing Russian ballistic‑missile threat and the necessity for stronger air defences.

European Council President António Costa is likewise expected to travel to Ukraine, alongside other international guests such as Luxembourg Prime Minister Luc Frieden.

The gathering precedes Ukraine’s Independence Day celebrations on Monday.

“On Ukraine’s 35th anniversary of independence, the Ukrainian people can be assured that the UK stands with them today and for as long as needed,” Burnham said in a statement.

Since Russia’s full‑scale invasion in 2022, the United Kingdom has ranked among Ukraine’s most steadfast supporters, committing roughly £25 billion (€29.2 billion) in total assistance—of which £16 billion (€18.7 billion) is earmarked for military aid.

Source link