The United Kingdom has announced plans to formalize a 100-year partnership with Ukraine, marking a significant step in its continued support for the Eastern European nation amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed the ambitious agreement during his first official visit to Kiev since assuming office. The British government described the partnership as a commitment to strengthen “unbreakable bonds” and expand bilateral cooperation in defense and other critical areas.

Announced on January 16, the agreement underscores London’s determination to solidify its role as a key ally to Ukraine. According to an official government statement, the pact aims to deter “ongoing Russian aggression” while reinforcing cooperation on maritime security in strategically significant regions, including the Baltic Sea, Black Sea, and the Sea of Azov.

The Sea of Azov has become a contentious area following Russia’s annexation of the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics, along with the Kherson and Zaporozhye regions, in 2022. Moscow’s leadership, including President Vladimir Putin, has declared the Sea of Azov an “inland sea” of Russia, complicating any Western-backed security arrangements in the region. The UK’s emphasis on maritime security indicates its intention to counterbalance Russian influence in these contested waters.

Defense cooperation lies at the heart of the proposed partnership. London’s announcement highlighted plans to boost military collaboration, reflecting the UK’s longstanding support for Ukraine since the escalation of the conflict in February 2022. The UK has so far provided £12.8 billion ($16 billion) in military and civilian aid, including advanced weaponry, and trained........

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