Burnham to Visit Kyiv on First Foreign Trip, Reaffirming UK Support for Ukraine

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham embarks on his first foreign visit to Kyiv on Monday, coinciding with Ukraine's independence day, to strongly reaffirm the United Kingdom's unwavering support. The visit aims to honor Ukraine's resilience and underscore the UK's commitment to its security.

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On Ukraine's 35th anniversary of independence, the Ukrainian people should be in no doubt: the UK is behind you today and for as long as it takes.

During his trip, Burnham is scheduled to chair his first meeting of the "coalition of the willing," a group established by the UK and France under his predecessor. He will also accept an award on behalf of the British people, acknowledging the UK's significant contributions to Ukraine's defense and sovereignty. This gesture highlights the deep ties and shared resolve between the two nations.

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I am proud of the contribution our country has made to Ukraine and I want the Ukrainian people to hear it directly from me that our support will not waver. After all, Ukraine's security is our security.

Burnham's visit comes at a critical juncture, with Russia intensifying its strikes on Ukraine, including a recent attack on a shopping center that resulted in numerous casualties. He emphasized that the UK stands with Ukraine "today and for as long as it takes," stating, "Ukraine's security is our security." This declaration directly addresses escalating tensions and Russian threats, particularly concerning Ukraine's use of drones on Russian infrastructure.

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Russia should be in no doubt of our resolve. We will not back down until there is a just and lasting peace.

The prime minister dismissed Russian warnings of "consequences," asserting that the UK is providing essential support for Ukraine's self-defense. He reiterated the long-standing British position, maintained by previous prime ministers, that support will continue. Furthermore, Burnham announced that the government will allow defense company MBDA to declassify information on UK components for the Scalp missile, a move that aligns with French efforts to establish local missile assembly lines in Ukraine. This cooperation signifies a deepening military partnership aimed at bolstering Ukraine's defensive capabilities.

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We are not fair-weather friends, we will be there in Ukraine's hour of need and that won't change.