Contrary to the custom, Boris Johnson’s visit to the Ukrainian capital had not been announced in advance. The world learned about his presence in Kyiv via a picture that has been published on social media by the Ukrainian Embassy in London. 

https://twitter.com/UkrEmbLondon/status/1512791528607031303?s=20&t=F8HpUSqtafidG7sk9VbLvA

Prime Minister Johnson and President Zelenskyy discussed further cooperation in the context of the ongoing war against Russia. Zelenskyy’s senior officials praised the UK for its solidarity and support in these hard times. Zelenskyy himself praised the UK’s „decisive and significant support” for his country. 

In turn, Boris Johnson expressed his admiration for the Ukrainian Président’s “resolute leadership and the invincible heroism and courage of the Ukrainian people”, adding that Ukraine has “defied the odds and pushed back Russian forces from the gates of Kyiv”. 

https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1512877771474845700?s=20&t=F8HpUSqtafidG7sk9VbLvA

“I made clear today that the United Kingdom stands unwaveringly with [Ukraine] 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,” the British leader announced. 

Following the meeting, Downing Street announced the UK is about to send 120 armoured anti-ship missile systems and vehicles to support Ukraine. The British Prime Minister also confirmed further economic support to Ukraine, taking total UK loan guarantees to £770m.

Boris Johnson is the first member of a G7 country to travel to Kyiv since Russia launched its large-scale invasion of Ukraine on the 24th of February. 

Image: Twitter @Reuters

Author: Sébastien Meuwissen