Zelensky visits UK on second trip abroad since invasion

On Wednesday, February 8, the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, will visit Great Britain, Sky News reports, citing the office of the British Prime Minister.

The prime minister's office has announced that Volodymyr Zelensky will arrive in the UK today to meet Rishi Sunak and Ukrainian troops.

Mr. Zelensky and Mr. Sunak will discuss UK support for Ukraine, starting with the military equipment that the UK is delivering. The Prime Minister is expected to strengthen his long-term support.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak commented that Zelensky's decision to visit the UK guarantees friendship between the two countries.

"President Zelensky's visit to the UK is a testament to his country's courage, determination, and fight, and a testament to the unbreakable friendship between our two countries," said the head of the British government, quoted by the Evening Standard.

Rishi Sunak stressed that the UK had provided training to Ukrainian forces since 2014, helping them to protect their sovereignty.

"I am proud that today we will expand that training from soldiers to marines and fighter jet pilots, ensuring Ukraine has a military able to defend its interests well into the future," the British PM announced, adding it is a long-term pledge "to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Ukraine for years to come."

Zelensky is also expected to address the British Parliament. After that, he should arrive in Brussels on Thursday to participate in the EU summit.

This visit is his first visit to the UK since russia's invasion started in February last year. It is Zelensky's second international trip overall since February 2022. He has only visited the United States before to have military aid talks with US President Joe Biden.