On Saturday, Ukraine and the UK signed a £2.26 billion loan agreement aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. The loan, to be repaid through profits from frozen Russian sovereign assets, represents a significant step in Ukraine’s military strengthening. Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Ukrainian Finance Minister Sergii Marchenko signed the agreement, with the first tranche expected to arrive in Ukraine soon.
This diplomatic milestone came just one day after a dramatic fallout between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump at the White House. During an extraordinary and tense meeting, Trump threatened to withdraw support for Ukraine, accusing Zelenskyy of disrespect. The confrontation escalated to the point where Zelenskyy was asked to leave without signing a minerals deal that would have deepened economic and defense ties between the two countries.
In stark contrast to the chilly atmosphere at the White House, Zelenskyy’s visit to London was met with warmth and solidarity. UK Labour leader Keir Starmer greeted Zelenskyy with enthusiasm outside 10 Downing Street, where he reiterated the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine. Starmer’s embrace of Zelenskyy and his reassurances of continued support were echoed by public cheers from those gathered outside. Starmer made it clear that the UK would stand by Ukraine “for as long as it may take,” a sentiment shared by King Charles, who would later meet Zelenskyy.
Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude to the people of the UK for their ongoing support since the invasion began three years ago, stating that it has been “tremendous.” The British royal family has also been vocal in backing Ukraine, with King Charles praising the resilience of the Ukrainian people.
However, the diplomatic relations between Zelenskyy and the US, particularly with Trump back in power, seem to be on shaky ground. Zelenskyy emphasized that while the US’s support is critical, a US-backed peace deal without security guarantees for Ukraine is unacceptable. He also conveyed that economic agreements like the minerals deal alone wouldn’t be sufficient to end the war with Russia.
Zelenskyy’s diplomatic challenges underscore the complex web of international relations in the Ukraine crisis. While the UK continues to show strong, public support, the future of Ukraine’s relationship with the US remains uncertain, especially as Trump’s confrontational stance risks driving a wedge between traditional allies in Europe and the US.
Ultimately, the £2.26 billion loan deal with the UK reflects continued Western support for Ukraine’s defense, though Zelenskyy’s struggles with the US raise questions about the long-term unity among Ukraine’s supporters, particularly as the war with Russia drags on.
