UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Downing Street as part of ongoing efforts to reinforce British support for Ukraine amid heightened conflict with Russia. The meeting is scheduled for this afternoon and underscores the UK government’s commitment to backing Ukraine "for as long as it takes," according to Burnham.
The visit comes at a time when Ukraine faces intensified missile and drone attacks from Russian forces. To counter these threats, the UK government announced it will accelerate delivery of British-made lightweight multirole missiles (LMMs) to Ukraine. These advanced missiles are intended to help defend against a new generation of faster, jet-powered Russian drones, which pose a greater challenge to Ukrainian air defenses compared to the slower, propeller-driven Shahed drones used previously. The defense aid is part of a broader £1.6 billion package committed by the UK to supply over 5,000 LLMs to Ukraine.
Burnham and Zelenskyy have met twice since Burnham took office in July. Their previous engagements included Zelenskyy’s visit to a naval base in Portsmouth and Burnham’s trip to Kyiv in August. These meetings have reinforced diplomatic ties as Ukraine battles increasing Russian aggression.
The UK’s strengthened support contrasts with tensions between Zelenskyy and former US President Donald Trump. Trump has recently drawn criticism for negotiating a deal to purchase Russian diesel, calling for new leadership in Ukraine, and announcing a ceasefire related to energy infrastructure—a declaration viewed with skepticism. Zelenskyy condemned the diesel deal, interpreting subsequent Russian attacks on civilian areas as a retaliatory gesture from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Historically, the UK has been a reliable partner for Ukraine during periods of strained relations with other allies. In a notable past visit, Zelenskyy met Labour leader Keir Starmer in Downing Street shortly after Trump and Vice President JD Vance publicly questioned the Ukrainian president at the White House 18 months ago. On that occasion, Zelenskyy was also personally hosted by King Charles at Sandringham, a rare setting for diplomatic meetings.
In addition to military aid, the UK is pursuing economic measures against Russia. Chancellor John Healey is attending the International Monetary Fund summit in Bangkok, where he plans to advocate for a comprehensive international ban on exports of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG). This proposal aims to further isolate Russia economically while supporting Ukraine’s resistance efforts.
The forthcoming meeting between Burnham and Zelenskyy highlights the UK’s intent to maintain a strong alliance with Ukraine as the conflict with Russia continues to evolve.