The UK has announced a PS2,26 billion ($3 bn), secured by frozen Russian assets. This marks a significant change in the way Western support is funded
In an interview with RBK Ukraine, British Ambassador Martin Harris said that the United Kingdom is committed to supporting Ukraine up until a “just” and “lasting” peace has been achieved. However, Russia does not show any signs of wanting such a solution.
As the war entered its third year and global pressures on military and economic resources increased, the discussion of a negotiated peace in Ukraine became more prominent. The topic is particularly relevant in light of the upcoming 2024 US Presidential election.
“Unfortunately, Russia is continuing its aggression against Ukraine. “Russia gives no signals regarding a just and peaceful peace,” Harris said. He stressed that both diplomatic and military measures are needed to support Ukraine’s efforts for peace.
Harris said that the UK announced a new PS2,26 billion ($3 Billion) loan to Ukraine secured by frozen Russian assets.
According to reports, the funds will be used for Ukraine’s budget for air defense and artillery.
According to Harris the UK actively supports President Zelenskyy‘s victory plan. This is especially true ahead of the change in US administration.
The ambassador said, “We want Ukraine in a strong position at that time, both diplomatically and militarily, as well as economically.”
Harris stressed the importance of Ukraine joining NATO. He said that “not only would Ukraine be in NATO but NATO would be stronger with Ukraine.” But he refused to speculate about the possibility of a “hybrid membership arrangement” within NATO.
The UK is currently negotiating a 100-year partnership with Ukraine that extends beyond military cooperation and includes culture, technology, educational, and economic spheres.
During his May visit to Kyiv, the British Foreign Secretary began 100-year partnership discussions. The two countries discussed the transfer of Russia’s frozen assets and military supplies.
A 100-year Partnership – a new deal on relations between the countries in the areas of trade, science and technology, education, culture and security. This earlier agreement was part of a series implementing commitments made by Ukraine, G7 countries, and other nations at the NATO Vilnius Summit in 2023.
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