Boris Johnson pledges to send military vehicles and missiles as he hails Zelenskyy’s heroism
The UK has announced a new package of financial and military aid for Ukraine after British Prime Minister Boris Johnson paid a surprise visit to war-scarred capital of Ukraine where he met President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
UK would send 120 armored vehicles and new anti-ship missile systems to Ukraine, Downing Street announced on April 9. “This is in addition to the £100 million worth of high-grade military equipment announced yesterday, including more Starstreak anti-aircraft missiles, another 800 anti-tank missiles, and high-tech loitering munitions for precision strikes,” the 10 Downing Street statement said.
The UK has also confirmed economic support for Ukraine, guaranteeing an additional $500m in World Bank lending to Ukraine, taking the country’s total loan guarantee to up to $1 billion. This comes alongside the £394m the UK has provided in grant aid and ensure the continued running of vital humanitarian services for Ukrainians.
British prime minister described his visit as “a show of our unwavering support for the people of Ukraine”, and said the talks with the Ukrainian president would focus on long-term support for the country and new financial and military aid which is “a testament of our commitment to his country’s struggle against Russia’s barbaric campaign.”
During his visit, Johnson praised President “Zelenskyy’s resolute leadership and the invincible heroism and courage of the Ukrainian people.”
“I made clear today that the United Kingdom stands unwaveringly with them in this ongoing fight, and we are in it for the long run. We are stepping up our own military and economic support and convening a global alliance to bring this tragedy to an end, and ensure Ukraine survives and thrives as a free and sovereign nation.” Johnson also announced that the UK will continue to intensify sanctions against Russia.
Later in his address posted on social media, Zelenskyy thanked the UK and Johnson. “Boris was among those who didn’t doubt for a minute whether to support Ukraine. The leadership of Great Britain in providing our country help in defense, and also leadership in the sanctions policy, will always be in history. “Ukraine will always be grateful for this to Boris and Britain,” Zelenskyy said.
