London meeting, Burnham hosts Zelensky to strengthen support for Ukraine

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham will host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Downing Street today, in a meeting expected to reaffirm London’s support for Ukraine.

The talks take place at a tense period for relations between Kyiv and Washington. US President Donald Trump has called for a change in Ukrainian leadership, while also reaching a deal with Moscow on Russian oil.

During the meeting, Burnham is expected to convey to Zelensky the guarantee that Britain remains fully committed to strengthening Ukraine’s defense, particularly amid ongoing Russian air attacks.

London aims to accelerate the supply of anti-aircraft missiles and deliveries of lightweight multifunctional missiles, used against Russian jet-powered drones. The British Prime Minister is also expected to call for the preparation of new military and economic aid packages and the imposition of further sanctions on Moscow.

The British government wants to increase pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin, with the aim of getting Moscow to respond to calls for halting attacks on energy facilities. At the same time, London has appealed to international allies to toughen measures against Russia, especially through restricting Russian energy exports.

Zelensky’s visit to the British capital comes just days after his latest public clash with the American president. On Saturday, Trump declared that it was time for Ukraine to “choose a new president,” questioning Zelensky’s leadership of the country at a critical phase of the war.

These statements came after Washington’s deal with Moscow on Russian oil supplies, despite the sanctions imposed on Russia. The decision sparked strong reactions in Kyiv and in European capitals, due to concerns that it could boost the Russian economy’s revenues.

Britain has distanced itself from the American initiative and has stressed that it does not support easing economic restrictions on Moscow. According to the British government, allies must continue pressure on Russia.

Ahead of the meeting, Burnham sent Kyiv a clear message, reiterating that his government is determined to provide long-term support for Ukraine.

“My message to the Ukrainian people could not be clearer: we are with you for as long as it takes,” Burnham declared, underscoring Britain’s resolve to continue assisting Ukraine’s defense efforts.

The two leaders held a phone conversation on Saturday, during which the British Prime Minister expressed his full solidarity with Ukraine. They discussed maintaining pressure on Moscow and agreed to meet to review the next steps of cooperation.