Zelensky says he is ‘afraid’ about UK leadership change
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he was "afraid" of political changes among Ukraine's allies when asked about the United Kingdom's upcoming change of prime minister during a joint appearance with outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Kyiv on Thursday.
A journalist asked the two leaders whether the departures of Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron raised concerns about future support for Ukraine.
Responding first, Starmer said Britain's commitment to Ukraine would continue beyond his time in office.
“I am very confident in saying that this commitment and support of the UK for Ukraine will remain unwavering. We will stand by you, Volodymyr, and the Ukrainian people for as long as necessary, and long after that,” he said.
Zelensky acknowledged the uncertainty created by changes in political leadership while Ukraine remains at war.
“When you ask, what about us, of course, I am concerned about changes, of course, I am afraid because we are at war every day,” he said.
“I hope that we never lose strong relations with the United Kingdom during and after the war. Thank you very much.”
During Starmer's tenure, the UK has remained one of Ukraine's largest military and financial backers. On Thursday, he announced an additional €300 million in support for Swedish-made fighter jets, adding to the UK's assistance for Ukraine this year.
The United Kingdom has provided billions of pounds in military, humanitarian and economic assistance since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Starmer announced last month that he would step down as prime minister. His departure comes as the UK prepares for a change in leadership while maintaining its support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
