UK Prime Minister Unveils £1.6 Billion Arms Deal for Ukraine
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Synopsis
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a significant £1.6 billion arms deal for Ukraine, enabling the purchase of over 5,000 air defense missiles to enhance security. This move aims to bolster Ukraine's position in negotiations while maintaining military support and increasing pressure on Russia.
Key Takeaways
- £1.6 billion deal to strengthen Ukraine's defenses.
- Over 5,000 air defense missiles to be purchased.
- Four-step plan to ensure lasting peace in Ukraine.
- Coalition of countries to support Ukraine's sovereignty.
- Commitment to military aid and economic sanctions on Russia.
London, March 3 (NationPress) British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has declared that the UK will enable Ukraine to access £1.6 billion (approximately $2 billion) in British export financing to acquire over 5,000 air defense missiles.
Speaking at a press conference following a summit with Western leaders in London, Starmer emphasized, “This will be essential for safeguarding critical infrastructure and bolstering Ukraine.”
He highlighted that the aim is “to position Ukraine as strongly as possible” for future negotiations.
During the London summit, attended by more than a dozen European heads of state and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, discussions focused on a defense strategy to promote a peace framework for Ukraine.
Starmer outlined a four-step plan agreed upon by the leaders to ensure peace in Ukraine: maintaining military support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict, intensifying economic sanctions on Russia, guaranteeing Ukraine's sovereignty and security in any lasting peace agreement, and deterring any potential future Russian invasions.
Furthermore, leaders resolved to form a “coalition of the willing” to defend Ukraine and uphold peace.
Starmer reiterated the UK’s dedication to the peace initiative, stating, “We will provide boots on the ground and planes in the air.”
He stressed the necessity for Europe to take the lead and emphasized the importance of US support.
Starmer remarked, “We share a consensus with Trump on the critical need for a sustainable peace. Now we must act collectively.”
Earlier on Sunday, prior to the summit, Starmer revealed that the UK, along with France and Ukraine, is formulating a ceasefire plan to present to the US. He identified three key elements essential for achieving “lasting peace”: a robust Ukraine, European security guarantees, and a US support framework, which is currently under “intense” negotiations.
The summit occurred amid rising diplomatic tensions, notably following a contentious exchange between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump, which resulted in the cancellation of a planned raw materials agreement.
On Saturday, Zelensky met with Starmer at 10 Downing Street, where the British Prime Minister reaffirmed the UK’s “steadfast commitment” to securing enduring peace in Ukraine. Subsequently, Ukrainian Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko announced that the UK and Ukraine have finalized a loan agreement of £2.26 billion to enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities. (1 pound = $1.26)
