Starmer, Zelensky to meet in London

This was reported on the UK government’s website, according to Ukrinform.

It is noted that UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in London today, as Ukrainian and British drone experts continue to support partners in the Gulf in defending against ongoing waves of Iranian drone attacks.

The visit comes amid expectations that the two leaders will agree an enhanced security and defence industrial declaration, capitalising on Ukraine’s expertise and the UK’s industrial base to manufacture and supply drones and innovative capabilities.

As part of the agreement, the UK and Ukraine will also explore opportunities to expand defence industrial and technological cooperation with third countries, boost international security, and ensure that the latest defence technology is in the hands of those who need it most.

“The UK will also fund a new AI Centre of Excellence that will sit within the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence,” the statement reads.

It is noted that this team of experts will receive funding of £500,000, ensuring the full use of artificial intelligence for battlefield advantage.

“We must work in lockstep with our partners and allies to deliver security at home and abroad, and this new partnership with Ukraine will do just that,” Starmer said.

He added that drones, electronic warfare, and rapid battlefield innovation are now central to national and economic security, as highlighted by the conflict in the Middle East.

“By deepening our defence partnerships, we are strengthening Ukraine’s ability to defend itself from Russia’s brutal, ongoing attacks, while ensuring the UK and our allies are better prepared to meet the threats of the future,” the British Prime Minister emphasized.

It is emphasized that Ukraine has developed world-leading expertise in protecting cities, civilians, and command posts from drone attacks, and their Armed Forces work closely with software engineers and technical experts, adapting almost daily to new threats.

Starmer is also expected to host NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at his Downing Street office during the visit.

“All three leaders will discuss efforts to secure a just and lasting peace for Ukraine, progress on Coalition of the Willing in the event of a ceasefire and the need to maintain sanctions pressure on Russia,” the UK government press release concludes.

As reported by Ukrinform, Ukraine and the United Kingdom have launched the OCTOPUS project to manyfacture interceptor drones, which will be mass-produced in the UK. Thousands of such drones are expected to be produced each month for delivery to Ukraine.

On February 25, the first Ukrainian defense plant in the UK began operations – a production facility of Ukrspecsystems, whose drones have long proven effective in high-tech warfare.

Photo: PA