Key facts
- UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Downing Street.
- The UK will accelerate the delivery of British Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMMs) to Ukraine.
- The UK will maintain its ban on Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports.
- Chancellor John Healey is urging international partners to increase sanctions on Russia and ban Russian LNG.
- Zelenskyy criticized US President Donald Trump's decision to ease sanctions on Russian diesel.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Downing Street on Wednesday to underscore the UK's unwavering support for Ukraine, pledging to accelerate military aid and urging international partners to increase pressure on Russia.
The UK announced it would speed up the delivery of British Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMMs), which have proven effective against drones used in attacks beyond the front lines. The government also reaffirmed its commitment to a ban on Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, restricting Russia's access to UK shipping and insurance services.
Chancellor John Healey, attending IMF meetings in Bangkok, was set to call on partners to fully implement a similar ban on Russian LNG, following the UK's lead. This diplomatic push aims to curtail Russia's war funding and ensure European resolve against President Vladimir Putin's ongoing invasion.
The visit and renewed support come amid controversy surrounding US President Donald Trump's decision to ease sanctions on Russian diesel, a move President Zelenskyy described as a "gift" to Putin. Trump, in turn, called for new leadership in Ukraine and criticized Zelenskyy's actions regarding Russian oil refineries.