UK promises Ukraine more weapons, angering Russia

The United Kingdom has promised Ukraine further arms for its fight against Russia, as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a surprise stop to meet with his British counterpart.

The United Kingdom has promised Ukraine further arms for its fight against Russia, as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a surprise stop to meet with his British counterpart.

Zelenskyy landed by helicopter on Monday (May 15) at Chequers Court, the British leader’s official country retreat, where he was greeted by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak with a handshake and a hug.

Sunak’s office said that Britain was set to confirm it was giving Ukraine hundreds more air defence missiles, as well as “long-range attack drones” with a range of more than 200km (124 miles).

Zelenskyy, on his second trip to the UK since Russia invaded his country in February 2022, thanked his staunch ally and said the war was a matter of “security not only for Ukraine, it is important for all of Europe.”

Sunak told Zelenskyy that “your leadership, your country’s bravery and fortitude are an inspiration to us all”.

In the past few days, Zelenskyy has visited France, Germany and Italy, seeking more aid as Ukraine prepares a long-anticipated spring offensive to retake territory seized by Russia.

The Kremlin said it took London’s promise to supply Ukraine with more weapons “extremely negatively”, but at the same time believed the supplies would not drastically change the course of the war.