Portrait of Keir Starmer
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Keir Starmer on Ukraine Aid

Strong Ukraine supporter (strong)

Keir Starmer, as Prime Minister, demonstrates a firm commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression, framing this support as essential for UK national security. He has promised that the UK will stand with Ukraine for as long as necessary, detailing this commitment through various financial and military aid packages. Key to his approach is the establishment of long-term structural support, including a 100-year partnership agreement and pushing allies for robust security guarantees for Kyiv.

Context

Keir Starmer's stance on Ukraine Aid is a cornerstone of his foreign policy as Prime Minister, continuing the UK's post-2022 trajectory of leading Western support. His engagement is highly focused on maintaining a united front with NATO allies, particularly in the context of potential shifts in US policy under President Trump. As PM, Starmer has sought to provide long-term assurance to Kyiv, moving beyond annual commitments to establish decades-long frameworks for security and support.

Timeline

  1. As incoming Prime Minister attending his first NATO summit, Keir Starmer underlined Britain's “unshakeable” commitment to Ukraine amid uncertainty regarding US support.
  2. Starmer recommitted the UK to £3 billion a year in military support for Ukraine until 2030/31 or for as long as required, warning allies that the frontline defence of the region is the Ukrainian trenches.
  3. Announced the UK would hike military spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027 (and aim for 3% by 2035), using this increased commitment to persuade US President Trump to maintain support for Kyiv.
  4. Told MPs that Western countries must keep military aid flowing to Ukraine and increase economic pressure on Russia, even after a peace deal.
  5. Signed a 100-year partnership agreement with President Zelenskyy providing support across sectors, including pledging to work on security guarantees.

Actions Taken

  1. Financial commitment
    Recommitted to £3 billion a year of military support for Ukraine until at least 2030/31, or for as long as needed, at the 2024 NATO summit.
  2. Policy statement
    Pledged to examine practical ways to secure a just and lasting peace that guarantees Ukraine's security and independence.
  3. Financial aid
    Announced a £2.2 billion loan for Ukraine, backed by the profits from frozen Russian assets, alongside continued military aid.
  4. Diplomatic action
    Hosted a summit of European leaders in London to discuss continued support, security guarantees, and peace efforts following friction between US and Ukrainian leaders.
  5. Infrastructure support
    Announced a further £20 million in support for Ukraine's vital energy infrastructure repairs following Russian attacks.

Key Quotes

We will work with you and all of our allies on steps that would be robust enough to guarantee Ukraine's security.

News conference with President Zelenskyy January 17, 2025 — Stating the goal of future security arrangements for Ukraine.

The future of Ukraine is vital for our national security.

Address to the Commons March 3, 2025 — Explaining the national security importance of the conflict.

We must keep the military aid to Ukraine flowing – keep increasing the economic pressure on Russia.

Speech to the Commons March 3, 2025 — Urging continued material and economic support for Kyiv.

Our 100 Year Partnership with Ukraine stands for everything Putin is trying to destroy, bringing hope, opportunity and greater security to both our countries.

Statement on partnership anniversary January 16, 2026 — Framing the UK-Ukraine relationship ideologically.

Related Positions

  • NATO Membership Starmer has called for an "irreversible" membership strategy for Ukraine to join NATO.
  • Defence Spending He has committed the UK to increasing defence spending to the NATO target of 2.5% of GDP by 2027, a key factor in alliance cohesion.