Yvette Cooper has committed the full backing of Britain to Ukraine during her current visit to the conflict-ridden nation. This marks her inaugural trip as the Foreign Secretary, with her journey taking her to Kyiv, where she is scheduled to engage with President Zelenskyy, key ministers, and Ukrainian citizens enduring the consequences of Russia’s unlawful invasion.
The visit comes amidst heightened tensions following the interception of Russian drones by Poland and Nato for encroaching on Polish airspace. Additionally, Russia recently carried out its most extensive aerial attack on Ukraine since the conflict began, resulting in the striking of a significant government edifice in Kyiv.
During her visit, Ms. Cooper will inspect the heavily damaged Cabinet of Ministers building and a residential complex devastated by Russian actions, where she will interact with affected families and children. She also announced a substantial £142 million aid package from the UK to support Ukraine throughout the upcoming winter and beyond. Of this amount, £100 million is designated for critical humanitarian aid to assist frontline community civilians, safeguard vulnerable populations, and provide emergency relief to those impacted by ongoing Russian assaults.
The aid will encompass repairing essential water and heating systems, sustaining livelihoods, boosting employment opportunities, and fortifying Ukrainian resilience during the fourth winter of the illegal conflict instigated by Russia. Moreover, £40 million will be directed towards revitalizing Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, which has suffered significant damage due to Russian actions.
This financial commitment is part of a pledge made by Keir Starmer to uphold Ukraine’s defense against Russia and aid civilians enduring Vladimir Putin’s brutal aggression. Ms. Cooper emphasized the importance of her visit to Ukraine early in her tenure as Foreign Secretary, highlighting the crucial link between Ukraine’s security and that of the UK and Europe. She reiterated the UK’s unwavering support and underscored the severe threat posed by Russian aggression to regional stability and global security.
Moreover, she is set to engage with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, Foreign Minister Sybiha, and Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko as part of her diplomatic mission.