Burnham to meet Zelenskyy at UK naval base in show of ‘unwavering’ support

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at a naval base, a visit that Burnham stated highlights Britain's "unwavering" backing for Ukraine. This meeting marks Zelenskyy's first overseas visit as a guest of the new prime minister, occurring less than two weeks after the previous prime minister visited Kyiv.

The leaders will convene at a naval base where Ukrainian forces have been undergoing training. Burnham, who spoke with Zelenskyy shortly after taking office, has pledged to continue the strong support for Ukraine's defense against Russia's invasion. The visit will include discussions with both Ukrainian and British military personnel involved in Exercise Sea Breeze, a multinational training deployment focused on maritime operations.

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Britain stands with Ukraine, shoulder to shoulder, and our support remains unwavering. Russia should be in no doubt of our resolve, and we will not back down until we achieve a long-lasting and just peace for Ukraine.

A key focus of the talks will be joint projects, specifically the "Stone Cloak" electronic jammer. The UK has shared the intellectual property for this device, enabling Ukraine to immediately begin mass production. Thousands of these tablet-sized jammers have already been sent to Ukraine to help drones evade Russian air defense systems. Ukraine's ability to produce these devices locally is seen as crucial for its ongoing defense efforts.

Burnham emphasized Britain's steadfast commitment, stating, "Britain stands with Ukraine, shoulder to shoulder, and our support remains unwavering." He highlighted the "Stone Cloak" as a vital piece of British innovation that will enhance security for both nations. Official figures indicate that since February 2022, the UK has provided £25 billion in support to Ukraine, with £16 billion allocated to military assistance.

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Stone Cloak is the best of homegrown British innovation and proven on the frontline, and it will be vital to protecting our security in both our countries.