Zelenskiy’s Historic Address to British Ministers

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy made a rare address to British government ministers, highlighting Britain's ongoing support for Kyiv. Prime Minister Keir Starmer reaffirmed Britain's commitment to aiding Ukraine, discussed sanctions on Russia, and unveiled defense support pledges. This historic address follows swift reaffirmations of support since Starmer's election victory.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy addressed British government ministers on Friday in a rare appearance by a foreign leader at a cabinet meeting. New Prime Minister Keir Starmer aims to underscore London's support for Kyiv through this historic event.

A day after hosting European leaders at Blenheim Palace, Starmer pushed forward in raising Britain's international profile by inviting Zelenskiy. The last foreign leader to address the cabinet was U.S. President Bill Clinton in 1997. Zelenskiy called for Western allies to allow long-range strikes on Russia, urging Britain to convince its partners to lift restrictions on weapon use.

Starmer assured Zelenskiy that Britain would expedite vital aid to Ukraine, following promises by the previous Conservative government to deliver aid within 100 days. He affirmed Britain's unwavering support for Ukraine, despite recent changes in government, and committed to new measures to disrupt Russia's oil shipping operations and boost defense exports.