British Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned that global attention must not shift away from Ukraine despite the ongoing war linked to Iran in the Middle East. Speaking as he welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to 10 Downing Street, Starmer said the conflict in the Middle East is serious but “we can’t lose focus on what’s going on in Ukraine and the need for our support.”
Zelenskyy updated Starmer on the latest developments in Russia’s war against Ukraine, on energy security, and on diplomatic initiatives involving the United States and Russia. NATO Secretary‑General Mark Rutte also took part in the meeting and held separate talks with Zelenskyy.
At a subsequent session with British lawmakers, Zelenskyy announced a major expansion of Ukraine’s drone capabilities. He said Ukraine can now produce about 2,000 interceptor drones per day and could supply roughly half of that output to allies. Zelenskyy added that Kyiv has already sent more than 200 air‑defense specialists to the Middle East to assist partners.
“These are military experts who know how to help, how to defend against Shahed drones,” Zelenskyy said, noting that Ukrainian teams are already operating in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, and are en route to Kuwait. He also said Ukraine is developing underwater and ocean‑capable drones.
During his London visit, Zelenskyy also met King Charles III.
Downing Street announced a new UK–Ukraine defense and industrial partnership aimed at joint production and supply of drones and other military technologies. As part of the agreement, the UK will contribute £500,000 toward an “AI centre of excellence” in Kyiv to bring experts together to explore battlefield applications of the technology, No. 10 said.
“By deepening our defense partnerships, we are strengthening Ukraine’s ability to defend itself from Russia’s brutal, ongoing attacks, while ensuring the UK and our allies are better prepared to meet the threats of the future,” Starmer said.
Zelenskyy’s London stop precedes a visit to Spain as European partners continue pledging steadfast support for Ukraine.
Video: How the Iran war is hurting Ukraine’s chances at peace
Edited by: Dmytro Hubenko