Ukraine-UK Partnership: President Zelensky Pushes for Century-Long Alliance
A bold new chapter in the Ukraine-UK Partnership may soon be sealed in law, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky takes formal steps to ratify the historic Century Partnership Agreement between the two nations.
Draft legislation, listed as No. 0332, was officially submitted to Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada, the nation’s parliament, to secure long-term cooperation between Kyiv and London. The proposed agreement reflects deepening strategic and political ties amidst ongoing tensions with Russia.
The accord was initially signed on 16 January in Kyiv. Present at the ceremony were President Zelensky and Keir Starmer, leader of the UK’s Labour Party. Their joint appearance was more than symbolic, it underscored a firm commitment to standing shoulder to shoulder.
“Under this agreement, Ukraine and the United Kingdom have agreed on the annual provision of military aid,” Zelensky said. “It also includes funding from assets frozen due to Russian aggression.”
Military support is just the start. British officials have signalled intentions to ramp up training for Ukrainian troops. This will involve advanced programmes focusing on long-range weaponry and collaborative weapons manufacturing, a move likely to raise eyebrows in Moscow.
But it’s not all about the battlefield. The proposed pact stretches well beyond defence.
“The United Kingdom plans to expand the training program for Ukrainian military personnel, which includes strengthening cooperation in long-range weaponry and joint arms production.”
Education is another key pillar of the agreement. British universities are gearing up to partner with Ukrainian institutions, opening doors for academic exchanges, research projects, and the transfer of vital knowledge.
“The agreement also foresees enhanced cooperation in the educational sector, with British universities beginning partnerships with Ukrainian educational institutions to promote the exchange of knowledge and experience.”
This deal, if ratified, could cement a century of collaboration between Ukraine and the UK across defence, education, economics, and governance.
For the UK, this isn’t just diplomacy. It’s about investing in long-term stability in Eastern Europe. For Ukraine, it’s a step closer to anchoring itself within a Western alliance of trust and resilience.
The Century Partnership Agreement now awaits parliamentary approval in Ukraine. Observers both in Westminster and Kyiv are watching closely.
A lasting bond. A united front. A partnership that looks well beyond the horizon.
