Starmer visited Ukraine on his last trip as Prime Minister to show support for the UK’s ‘iron fist’

Sir Keir Starmer has said the UK will continue its “ironclad” support for Ukraine as he makes his final trip to the country as Prime Minister.

Andy Burnham will meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the capital, Kiev, on Thursday ahead of his appointment as Labor leader and prime minister.

In comments ahead of the trip, Sir Kiir said the “strength” of the Ukrainian people had kept Europe safe since Russia launched a full-scale invasion in February 2022.

In his statement, Sir Kiir highlighted Britain’s contribution to the Ukraine war effort during his two years in Downing Street.

A 100-year partnership was signed between the two countries, which aims to strengthen defense and trade ties, and the prime minister has been working to establish a future peacekeeping force.

“When I become Prime Minister, I know that the UK must not just stand by Ukraine now, but help build the foundations of its long-term security and success,” Sir Kiir said.

He said the UK had invested more in defense and “will be at the forefront of future warfare technologies”.

Sir Kerr added: “We have brought others on that journey. As we have shown at the G7 and NATO meetings in recent weeks, the UK and its allies have come together as one to oppose Russian aggression.”