Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj made a surprise visit to the UK and addressed the British Parliament. He focused his speech on the recent conflict between Ukraine and Russia and their ongoing negotiations for peace. He discussed the importance of security and stability for the region, and expressed his hope that the conflict can be resolved peacefully. He also highlighted the UK’s role in supporting Ukraine’s efforts for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Rishi Sunak during Prime Minister’s visit to Kyiv in November last year – Press Office of the President of Ukraine
Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, is traveling to the UK to visit Ukrainian troops being trained in the country and to meet Rishi Sunak at Downing Street.
The prime minister is expected to announce an expanded training program for Ukrainian armed forces, as well as the delivery of longer-range weapons to Kyiv.
It is the first time the Ukrainian leader has visited the UK since the Russian invasion began almost a year ago.
Mr Zelensky will address Parliament on Wednesday before continuing to Brussels.
09:14 am
Zelenskyj’s visit is “proof of the courage of his country,” says Sunak
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has welcomed Volodmyr Zelenskyy’s surprise trip to Britain.
“President Zelenskyy’s visit to the UK is a testament to the courage, determination and struggle of his country and a testament to the unbreakable friendship between our two countries,” he said in a statement.
“Since 2014, the UK has been providing Ukraine’s armed forces with vital training, enabling them to defend their country, protect their sovereignty and fight for their territory.
“I am proud that today we are expanding that training from soldiers to include marines and fighter jet pilots, and ensuring Ukraine has a military capable of defending its interests well into the future. It also underscores our commitment to providing military equipment not just in the short-term, but a long-term pledge to stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine in the years to come.”
09:14 am
Zelenskyj meets British defense chiefs
During his visit to the UK, Mr Zelensky will also meet UK defense and security chiefs to discuss details of the expanded training programme.
The prime minister is expected to announce that Britain will begin training Ukrainian marines immediately.
This training is in addition to the existing program, which has trained 10,000 Ukrainian soldiers for combat over the past six months.
9:13 a.m
Volodymyr Zelenskyj is going to the UK for a surprise visit
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the President of Ukraine, travels to Britain for the first time since the Russian invasion began.
The Ukrainian leader will address Parliament and meet Rishi Sunak at Downing Street.
The Prime Minister is expected to announce that Britain will send long-range weapons to Ukraine.
Mr. Sunak will also present an expanded training program for Ukrainian troops, including training Ukrainians to become fighter pilots.
9:13 a.m
Biden pledges unwavering support to Ukraine
Joe Biden has promised that the United States will support Ukraine for as long as it takes to repel the Russian invasion.
“We’ll be by your side for as long as it takes. Our nation is working for more freedom, more dignity, more peace — not just in Europe, but everywhere,” Biden said, addressing Ukraine’s Ambassador to Washington Oksana Markarova, who is speaking at the President’s State of the Union address on Tuesday before a joint session of Congress.
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