Ukraine's parliament ratifies century-long UK pact

The document establishes a long-term framework for bilateral cooperation in security, defense, the economy, science, technology and cultural ties.

The agreement includes significant military support enhancements: London commits to providing Ukraine with at least 3.6 billion pounds sterling ($4.9 billion) in military aid annually through the 2030/31 fiscal year and beyond as needed.

This encompasses training for Ukrainian troops, pilot support, military aircraft supplies, expanded collaboration in defense production and involvement in joint expeditionary formats such as the Joint Expeditionary Force.

Ukraine's ambassador to the United Kingdom, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, said the document strengthens London's position in Eastern Europe, opens new markets and affirms the country's role as a guardian of international law and democracy.

"And for the world, it's a precedent on how to support a country that has become a victim of aggression. Not just with weapons. This document is both a challenge and opportunities. The potential benefits from such a partnership are enormous. The 'Century-Long Agreement' has already become a historical phenomenon that demonstrates the power of international law and friendship even in the most turbulent times. And it also provides grounds for optimism about the future of Ukraine and Britain in the family of free and successful nations," he said.

Background

The agreement, signed in January 2025 by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, builds on prior pacts like the 2020 Agreement on Political Cooperation, Free Trade and Strategic Partnership and the 2024 Agreement on Security Cooperation between Ukraine and the United Kingdom, aiming to ensure long-term ties amid Russia's war on Ukraine.