For the second time since the Russian special military operation in Ukraine started, President Volodymyr Oleksandrovych Zelenskyy has travelled out of his country to UK to secure fighter jets, tanks and also meet King Charles.
This trip according to the British press was a surprise.
Zelensky is addressed a joint session of the UK Parliament shortly after arriving in London.
Ukrainain soldiers are being trained in Britain to operate Challenger tanks, Zelensky says, noting the UK’s recent pledge to donate 14 battle tanks.
“I thank you Rishi,” Zelensky says directly to the PM. “For this powerful defensive step.”
In a statement, Downing Street said: “President Zelensky’s visit to the U.K. is a testament to his country’s courage, determination and fight, and a testament to the unbreakable friendship between our two countries.”
It added that the UK was planning “to train fighter jet pilots and marines” from the Ukrainian armed forces.
“The leaders will discuss a two-pronged approach to UK support for Ukraine, starting with an immediate surge of military equipment to the country to help counter Russia’s spring offensive, and reinforced by long-term support,” it added.
“As part of today’s talks, the prime minister will offer to bolster the UK’s training offer for Ukrainian troops, including expanding it to fighter jet pilots to ensure Ukraine can defend its skies well into the future.”
After London, EU officials hope Zelensky will visit Brussels on Thursday, in the buildup to the one-year anniversary on Feb. 24.
Zelensky’s trip is only his second outside Ukraine since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February of last year, having visited the U.S in December.
