London [UK], June 24: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer have agreed closer ties on military production between the United Kingdom and Ukraine, as the pair met ahead of a crunch NATO summit this week.
The Ukrainian president met the prime minister at Downing Street on Monday afternoon, after being welcomed to Windsor Castle for lunch with King Charles III.
In No 10's garden, Zelensky and Starmer also met with Ukrainian troops being trained for the front line by Britain and other allies in Operation Interflex. Zelensky, who is usually seen wearing military fatigues, wore a black blazer and trousers throughout his Monday visits.
He and Starmer embraced on the doorstep of No 10, where a red carpet had been rolled out for the Ukrainian leader.
After meeting in No 10's White Room, the two leaders announced a new military partnership in front of soldiers from Britain, Ukraine and other western allies.
"We've discussed the issues across the conflict, what more we can do to support," Starmer told the gathered soldiers.
"I'm really proud that this afternoon we are able to announce an industrial military co-production agreement, the first of its kind so far as Ukraine and the UK are concerned, which will be a massive step forward now in the contribution that we can continue to make, and is really a symbol of not only our joint work in this conflict, but the 100-year agreement that we've put in place."
Zelensky said the agreement would "strengthen both nations." He added: "It's very important to share our experience, your experience, on the battlefield, and your knowledge and experience during the Interflex training mission." Zelensky also singled out soldiers from Finland and Romania present in the No 10 garden for praise.
Starmer commended the "level of professionalism, commitment and the bravery and resilience of those who are being trained" through Interflex.
He added: "To all the trainers here, I just want to say a huge thank you on behalf of the UK and the other countries, 13 countries now involved in this training."
"It's a real show of strength, of unity amongst allies, but a real message to our adversaries as well." Charles had earlier welcomed the Ukrainian leader to an audience, followed by lunch, at Windsor Castle.
They were pictured chatting as they made their way through the Berkshire royal residence, and smiling as they shook hands.
Source: Qatar Tribune
