UK will help Ukraine with long-range capabilities, - Prime Minister Burnam. VIDEO
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has given assurances that London will continue to support Ukraine in its struggle against Russia and will help to strengthen its air defences, long-range capabilities and defence industry.
He madethis statement during the celebrations marking the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence, according to Censor.NET.
Details
"You have endured 12 years of outright aggression and the occupation of Crimea. And now, four and a half years of a full-scale Russian invasion. All of this was aimed at destroying the independence we are celebrating today. To try to break your will, but today, as every day, you are proving that they have failed," Burnham emphasised.
The Prime Minister recalled that the United Kingdom kept the flame of European freedom alight in the 20th century.
"In the 21st century, it is you who are keeping that flame alight. I believe that this is precisely how Ukraine is viewed across Europe today – as a beacon of light in the world, standing against the aggression that is increasingly casting a shadow over our era," he added.
Ukraine is defending Europe
The British Prime Minister thanked Ukraine.
"As President Zelenskyy said, Ukraine is not a poor relative, but a strong ally. Ukraine has become Europe’s defender – not a burden on our security, but the front line of Europe’s defence," said Burnham.
A message to the people of Ukraine
"I want to assure you that we fully recognise your independence and sovereignty, and that international borders cannot be changed by force. You have endured terrible suffering and continue to endure it today. We see the crimes and injustices committed against innocent civilians.
My message to the people from Lviv to Luhansk is this: we stand with you in this struggle with all our hearts and souls. I stand with you personally," emphasised the British Prime Minister.
Burnam noted that this was his first visit to Ukraine in his current role, but he hopes it will not be his last.
Support will continue
"I will fully honour every commitment my country has made to Ukraine. We will continue to build on the unique, century-long partnership between our countries. Despite Russia’s outrageous threats against my country, we will continue to support Ukraine’s defence.
I know you need further support to protect your airspace and civilians. I know how difficult the winters have been. That is why, later on, I will lead the ‘Coalition of the Willing’ alongside President Macron and Chancellor Merz," he added.
The British Prime Minister assured that Ukraine would receive assistance beyond just air defence.
"This also means stopping Russia before it has a chance to launch its missiles. Through sanctions that cut off their supply chains for military equipment. Through the use of long-range weapons before they (Russian missiles – Ed.) are launched. And also by helping Ukraine to develop new technologies and deepening our industrial cooperation.
We must continue to put pressure on Russia. Right now, we need to limit their ability to finance this war. That is precisely how we will hasten Russia’s realisation that it cannot win this war," he concluded.
