President Zelenskyy to Make Official Visit to Number 10 as UK Vows to Take Action Against Russia’s ‘Secret Fleet’ | Latest Political Developments
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled to visit Number 10 Downing Street on Friday as the UK government commits to spearheading a crackdown on Russian oil vessels involved in illicit activities.
During his visit, the Ukrainian leader, who has been participating in the European Political Community (EPC) summit, will have discussions with the entire new cabinet in Downing Street. The focus will be on updating the cabinet members about the ongoing conflict and emphasizing the importance of enhancing Europe’s defense industry to stay ahead of the Russian threat.
This historic meeting marks the first time Sir Keir Starmer has hosted a foreign dignitary since assuming the role of prime minister. Additionally, it will be the first instance of a president addressing the cabinet in person since former US president Bill Clinton did so in 1997.
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The discussion follows an agreement reached at the EPC summit by 44 European nations and the European Union to collaborate in disrupting Russia’s secretive fleet.
This fleet, consisting of approximately 6,000 vessels responsible for transporting 1.7 million barrels of oil daily, is believed to finance Russia’s military activities significantly. Some vessels are suspected of serving as surveillance posts or carrying weapons.
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The Defense Ministers of the UK and Ukraine are set to sign a new defense export support pact valued at £3.5 billion, aiming to boost the production of military equipment and weapons to support the war efforts.
President Zelenskyy engaged with representatives from the UK defense industry and UK Defense Secretary John Healey earlier this week to explore avenues for deeper cooperation and the enhancement of defense industrial production.
Prior to the meeting, Sir Keir emphasized, “Ukraine has always been and will continue to be a focal point of this government’s agenda. It is thus fitting that President Zelenskyy will deliver a significant address to my cabinet.”
“The incremental advances made by Russia on the battlefield pale in comparison to the united international support for Ukraine and the strong bonds between our peoples,” Sir Keir added.
“In conjunction with our European allies, we have sent a clear message to those aiding Putin’s attempts to circumvent sanctions – we will not allow the Russian clandestine fleet and the illicit proceeds it generates to traverse European waters unchecked, endangering our security.”
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This visit occurs against the backdrop of mounting uncertainty regarding future financing for Ukraine, directly linked with the impending US presidential elections.
Donald Trump, vying for a return to the White House post the November US election, recently announced Ohio senator JD Vance as his running mate, a vocal critic of US aid to Ukraine and the funding of European security by American taxpayers.
In contrast, Sir Keir reiterated his support for President Zelenskyy by unveiling a £3 billion aid package at the NATO summit in Washington.
