Ukraine and the UK signed a 100-year partnership agreement; what does it entail?

On January 16, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Kyiv to meet with President Zelenskyy. The parties concluded a vital 100-year partnership agreement that will deepen cooperation in both the military and civilian spheres.

The document comprises 14 articles and stipulates that the UK will provide Ukraine with annual military assistance of at least $3.6B for as long as needed. Another primary element is strengthening military cooperation between the countries in maritime security. Special emphasis is being placed on interoperability and Ukraine’s preparation for NATO accession.

The partnership is also envisaged to develop scientific and technical innovations in health care, agricultural technologies, space, and unmanned systems. A special system for verifying grain origin will also be introduced to prevent the illegal export of crops from temporarily occupied territories.

In the energy sector, the UK will consolidate its status as a strategic partner of Ukraine. The agreement will cover support for the extraction of critical minerals, the development of energy infrastructure, and the production of environmentally friendly steel.