Zelensky, Johnson make joint statement after meeting in Kyiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson have issued a joint statement after their meeting in Kyiv on Tuesday, February 1, according to the website of the head of state.

In the joint statement, Johnson emphasized the United Kingdom's unwavering commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.

"The United Kingdom stands shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine in the face of ongoing Russian aggression, which threatens regional peace and security and undermines the global order," the statement said.

The two countries' leaders stressed that it is the right of every Ukrainian to determine their own future. They warned that any further Russian incursion in Ukraine "would be a massive strategic mistake and have a stark humanitarian cost."

The presidential press service said Ukraine and the United Kingdom had agreed to work together to strengthen Ukraine's security and the ability to defend itself.

The leaders also expressed their commitment to strengthen Ukraine's energy security and support its efforts towards the green transition.

In this context, Johnson announced GBP 88 million of new funding to aid efforts to build Ukraine's resilience and reduce reliance on Russian energy supplies.

In conclusion, the two countries' leaders reaffirmed their desire to deepen the strategic partnership between Ukraine and the UK in all areas of mutual interest, and to continue their engagement, particularly in the framework of the Ukraine-UK Strategic Dialogue.

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