Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy received a warm welcome from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on March 1 during their meeting at 10 Downing Street. The show of solidarity came just a day after a heated exchange between Zelenskyy and former US President Donald Trump at the White House, which drew global attention.
As Zelenskyy arrived in London, a crowd of supporters cheered outside Downing Street. Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s unwavering support, stating, “You have full backing across the United Kingdom. We stand with you, with Ukraine, for as long as it may take.”
The meeting took place ahead of a European summit focused on strengthening support for Ukraine and addressing security concerns amid uncertainties over future US aid. The tension between Zelenskyy and Trump has raised urgency for Europe to take on a larger role in Ukraine’s defence.
During the visit, the UK and Ukraine announced a £2.26 billion ($2.84 billion) loan agreement to bolster Ukraine’s defence, funded by profits from immobilised Russian assets.
Starmer’s office later confirmed discussions with Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron regarding continued support for Ukraine. The UK leader stressed the need for Europe and the US to collaborate for Ukraine’s stability and regional security.
The diplomatic visit followed a controversial Oval Office exchange where Trump and Vice President JD Vance criticised Zelenskyy for not showing enough gratitude for US aid. Trump further warned that future assistance would be conditional on Ukraine accepting proposed US peace terms.
The confrontation sparked reactions across Europe. Leaders including Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa reaffirmed their backing for Ukraine, with French President Emmanuel Macron reiterating Russia’s role as the aggressor. Meanwhile, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a known ally of Vladimir Putin, sided with Trump, praising his stance on peace negotiations.
With Ukraine’s war against Russia entering its fourth year, the recent developments have intensified the debate over Europe’s capacity to support Kyiv without US assistance. Despite tensions, Zelenskyy remains open to further negotiations with Washington, highlighting the ongoing significance of US-Ukraine relations.
