LONDON: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky received a standing ovation from senior ministers on Friday as he became the first foreign leader to address the British cabinet in person since 1997.
He was warmly welcomed at Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s residence and office at 10 Downing Street.
Before addressing the cabinet, Zelensky had a one-on-one meeting with Starmer, where he expressed gratitude for Britain’s unwavering support for Kyiv since Russian forces invaded in February 2022.
Starmer, who led Labour to victory in recent elections, reiterated the UK’s commitment to stand by Ukraine for as long as necessary.
During his address to the cabinet, Zelensky, dressed in military fatigues and flanked by both the Union flag and Ukraine’s blue-and-yellow flag, provided an update on Ukraine’s current situation. He emphasized the urgent need for enhanced military capabilities, particularly air firepower, to defend against Russian aggression.
Zelensky called for the lifting of restrictions on the use of Western weapons against Russian military targets, arguing that it would enable Ukraine to protect its territory more effectively and secure its cities from Russian attacks.
The NATO member states, including the UK, have been cautious about allowing Ukraine to use Western-supplied weapons on Russian soil, fearing an escalation of the conflict. However, Britain has indicated its willingness to provide defensive weapons like Storm Shadow missiles to Ukraine.
The historic address by Zelensky to the British cabinet, described by Starmer as significant, coincided with international efforts by 44 countries and the European Union to target Russia’s “shadow fleet” of tankers evading sanctions. These vessels, while crucial for Russia’s war efforts, are also suspected of transporting weapons.
Zelensky’s visit and his appeal for international support underscored Ukraine’s ongoing struggle against Russian aggression and its plea for solidarity from Western allies.
