Zelenskyy Urges Starmer for Leadership in Ukraine Crisis During Historic Downing Street Visit

Zelenskyy urges Starmer to take a strong stance on Ukraine during his Downing Street visit

As the first international leader to be welcomed at Downing Street by the newly appointed prime minister, the Ukrainian president also becomes the first foreign dignitary to speak to an entire cabinet since US President Bill Clinton in 1997.

Political journalist @NifS

Friday, July 19, 2024, 2:

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged Sir Keir Starmer to demonstrate his leadership by convincing the government to permit Ukraine to deploy Western-supplied arms for attacks on targets within Russia.

The President of Ukraine made a visit to 10 Downing Street last Friday, during which the UK vowed to spearhead a stringent campaign against Russian oil ships.

However, Mr. Zelenskyy noted that his nation still lacks a clear response to the crucial question of whether they are permitted to use Western-supplied weapons to strike Russian soil. He added, "I urge you to demonstrate your leadership on this matter and to persuade our other allies to lift these restrictions."

In the previous year, the United Kingdom, the United States, and several allied nations started supplying Kyiv with extended-range missiles.

Live Politics: Responses to the Blenheim Palace Conference

However, although Ukrainian troops have employed these to strike sites in areas of their nation under Russian control, they have refrained from using them far into Russia due to worries about intensifying the hostilities.

The UK government indicated that the decision on the use of weaponry rests with Ukraine, but emphasized the importance of adhering to international law.

Stay informed on the most recent developments both in the UK and internationally by tuning into Sky News.

President Zelenskyy, attending the European Political Community (EPC) summit, updated the entire new cabinet at Downing Street about the current conflict.

He was the inaugural international head of state to be received by the newly appointed prime minister and the first president to personally address the cabinet since former US president Bill Clinton in 1997.

The gathering followed an agreement by 44 European nations and the European Union at the EPC summit, committing to collaborate in dismantling Russia’s alleged "shadow fleet".

The fleet consists of approximately 6,000 ships, transporting 1.7 million barrels of oil daily. According to government sources, these operations substantially finance the nation's military activities. Additionally, it is speculated that some of these vessels may serve as surveillance outposts or are used for arms transportation.

Mr. Zelenskyy and Sir Keir exchanged a warm embrace outside 10 Downing Street before their discussion, and the visiting dignitary was greeted with a standing ovation upon meeting with the cabinet members.

Downing Street announced that every secretary of state reiterated their dedication to backing Ukraine in every aspect, including military and financial aid, as well as making sure that Ukrainians residing in the country receive support and understand the UK's core message of solidarity with them.

At the gathering, the prime minister stated, "This is a significant occasion for us to reaffirm our backing for you and the Ukrainian populace in your battle against Russian hostility, and to reassert our commitment to support you. We are very grateful that you accepted our invitation."

The president expressed gratitude to the prime minister, acknowledging both his and the UK's support, emphasizing its impact on Ukrainians nationwide.

He stated, "I anticipate that our efforts will intensify moving forward. The quicker we proceed, the greater our accomplishments will be."

Explore further on Sky News: Danish Prime Minister cautions that Europe has not given sufficient priority to security.

For an enhanced viewing experience, it is recommended to utilize the Chrome browser.

This week, the defense ministers from the UK and Ukraine inked a new treaty aimed at bolstering defense exports, valued at £3.5 billion. The agreement, sanctioned by both nations' leaders, is set to enhance the production of military equipment and weaponry for the ongoing conflict.

President Zelenskyy held discussions with UK defense industry leaders and UK Defense Secretary John Healey on Thursday, focusing on enhancing collaboration and increasing defense industrial output.

Stay updated with the latest breaking news

Download the Sky News application at no cost

The occasion is set against a backdrop of increasing doubts about Ukraine's financial support, influenced by the upcoming U.S. presidential elections.

This week, Donald Trump, aiming for a comeback in the upcoming November presidential election, revealed his vice-presidential pick as Ohio Senator JD Vance. Vance is notably critical of U.S. financial assistance to Ukraine and the burden on American taxpayers to fund security in Europe.

Sir Keir reaffirmed his support for Mr. Zelenskyy, revealing a £3 billion financial support package during the latest NATO summit held in Washington.

Associated Subjects

Sky News Bottom Section

Information on Sky News

Services Provided by Sky News

Sky Network Channels

Additional Sky Websites