Conflicts & War

Jonhson visits Kyiv, leaders voice support for Ukraine on Independence Day

London, Aug 25 (EFE).- British prime minister Boris Jonhson returned to Kyiv Wednesday in a surprise visit to mark the country’s Independence Day and six months since the Russian invasion began.

“What happens in Ukraine matters to us all,” the prime minister wrote on Twitter next to a picture with Ukrainian president Voloymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv.

“That is why I am in Kyiv today. That is why the UK will continue to stand with our Ukrainian friends.

“I believe Ukraine can and will win this war,” he added.

Johnson also announced a new military aid package for Ukraine worth 54 million pounds (roughly $63.7 million), which includes the delivery of 2,000 drones and tracking missiles.

“Today’s package of support will give the brave and resilient Ukrainian Armed Forces another boost in capability, allowing them to continue to push back Russian forces and fight for their freedom,” he said.

Since February 24, when Russia launched a full-scale invasion of its smaller neighbor, London has spent over 2.3 billion pounds on military and financial aid packages for Kyiv.

The prime minister also urged the international community to continue to support Ukraine’s sovereignty and freedom.

“For the past six months, the United Kingdom has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Ukraine, supporting this sovereign country to defend itself from this barbaric and illegal invader.”

Back in London, the frontage of 10 Downing Street, the prime minister’s official residence, was decorated with flowers thematically arranged to represent the colors of the Ukrainian flag.

Other world leaders also expressed their support for Ukraine.

“We proudly stand with our Ukrainian friends in their fight for a free, independent and European future,” president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, wrote on Twitter.

“The EU has been with you in this fight from the very beginning. And we will be for as long as it takes,” she added.

Nato’s secretary-general echoed that sentiment.

“On Ukraine’s independence day I pay tribute to the brave Ukrainian women & men fighting for their freedom & their country,” Jens Stoltenberg said,

“Nato has supported Ukraine since its independence & you can continue to count on Nato for as long as it takes. Ukraine will prevail,” he added. EFE

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