Why the Royal Navy’s on top of the world
THE Ukrainian president has visited the Royal Navy’s HMS Prince of Wales in Portsmouth amid talks with Prime Minister Boris Johnson over Russia’s ‘destabilising behaviour’ towards the country.
Mr Johnson signed a strategic partnership deal yesterday with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Downing Street where he stressed the UK’s commitment to Ukraine, Number 10 said.
The visit comes as Russia warns it is ‘tracking’ £1bn Royal Navy destroyer HMS Dragon, which has been deployed to the Black Sea to provide security and reassurance to the region.
Speaking yesterday Mr Johnson said: ‘The UK is Ukraine’s most fervent supporter.
‘Whether it’s our defence support, stabilisation efforts, humanitarian assistance or close co-operation on political issues, our message is clear: we are utterly committed to upholding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.
‘The Strategic Partnership Agreement we are signing today signals the next chapter in our relationship.
‘It’s a chapter that will bring increased security and prosperity for both the people of the UK and Ukraine.’
Downing Street said: ‘The UK has been outspoken in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty in the face of Russia’s destabilising behaviour.
‘The UK has been a staunch defender of Ukraine’s right to self-determination, particularly since the illegal annexation of Crimea by Russia in 2014.’
The meeting with Mr Johnson is part of a two-day visit by Mr Zelenskyy to the UK which has included a tour of the Prince of Wales aircraft carrier in Portsmouth.
British troops have trained more than 18,000 members of Ukraine’s armed forces as Kiev fights separatists in the east of the country.
The Strategic Partnership
Agreement includes a preferential free trade agreement covering goods, services, and tariffs and quotas.
Trade between the UK and Ukraine is currently worth £1.5bn per year.
The agreement also details commitments to cooperate on peaceful conflict resolution, defence and security, climate change and human rights.
During Mr Zelenskyy’s visit, he and his wife Olena were welcomed by The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at the first royal event at Buckingham Palace since lockdown.
William and Kate greeted the pair during an audience on behalf of the Queen.