Downing Street said Britain would also send a new anti-ship missile system to support the country against the Russian invasion. The announcement came after talks between the two leaders in the Ukrainian capital, where Mr Johnson paid a surprise visit on Saturday. It is understood that this is the first time the couple has met in person since the start of the Russian invasion on February 24. Downing Street said Saturday that the prime minister was in Kyiv to “demonstrate the United Kingdom’s firm solidarity with Ukraine” and to discuss military and financial support with Zelensky. Boris Johnson visits Kyiv on Saturday for talks with Ukrainian President (PA) “He reiterated that the United Kingdom will do everything in its power to support Ukraine’s courageous struggle against the brutal and unprovoked invasion of Russia and to ensure its long-term security and prosperity,” he said. Number 10 said this would include new military assistance to 120 armored vehicles and new anti-ship missile systems to support Ukraine in a “critical phase” of the war. The day came after the United Kingdom announced an additional 100 100 million in military aid to Ukraine, including anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles. On Saturday, Mr Zelensky said Ukraine was preparing for a tough battle in the East, where Russia is concentrating its troops. Ukrainian authorities have also advised civilians still in the area – which has been the focus of military action since Russia withdrew from areas around the capital – to leave. After meeting with Zelensky on Saturday, Mr Johnson said Ukraine had achieved “the greatest arms achievement of the 21st century” by pushing Russian forces out of Kiev. “It’s because of President Zelensky’s determined leadership and the invincible heroism and courage of the Ukrainian people that Putin ‘s monstrous goals are thwarted,” he said. “I made it clear today that the United Kingdom stands by them in this ongoing struggle and we are in it in the long run.” The Independent has a proud campaign history for the rights of the most vulnerable and we first launched our “Welcome Refugees” campaign during the war in Syria in 2015. Now, as we renew our campaign and start this report on In the wake of the unfolding Ukrainian crisis, we call on the government to move faster and faster to secure aid. To learn more about our Refugee Campaign, click here. To sign the application click here. If you would like to donate, click here for our GoFundMe page.
