British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, saying Russian threats will not deter Britain from backing Kyiv.
Burnham made the remarks during a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing, where he sat alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as international leaders discussed continued support for Ukraine.
The British Prime Minister said threats from Russia would not change the UK’s position, adding that they demonstrated the impact of Britain’s assistance to Ukraine.
Burnham said Russia was “running out of options” and accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of seeking to win the conflict through attacks involving ballistic missiles against Ukrainian civilians.
He said the UK would continue to stand with Ukraine despite the threats, stressing that British support would remain in place for the long term.
Zelenskyy thanked Burnham for Britain’s continued support and welcomed an agreement with France to share blueprints for the Storm Shadow/SCALP cruise missile.
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The arrangement is expected to help Ukraine develop and produce its own version of the long-range missile, potentially strengthening the country’s ability to strike military targets.
The Ukrainian president also highlighted the pressure facing his country’s air defense systems as Russian missile and drone attacks continue.
Burnham acknowledged the challenges facing Ukraine’s air defenses and said the UK was supporting efforts to develop a lower-cost alternative to the Patriot missile interceptor.
The supply of additional Patriot systems requires approval from the United States, making alternative air-defense technology an important part of efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s protection against Russian attacks.
The British Prime Minister was also briefed on the difficulties Ukraine could face during the approaching winter, particularly as the country continues to deal with attacks on critical infrastructure and energy facilities.
Burnham reiterated Britain’s commitment to supporting Ukraine for the long term, saying the UK would stand with the country “as long as it takes.”
The meeting comes as European countries seek to strengthen their collective support for Ukraine while discussions continue over military assistance, air defense and efforts to achieve a lasting peace.
CNN
