Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has visited Ukraine to sign a “landmark 100-year partnership” with the country, formalizing economic and military support already pledged.

This is the prime minister’s first visit to the country since taking office last summer, as a show of support for Ukraine days before Donald Trump re-enters the White House.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is keen to discuss firm security guarantees from key allies such as the UK, wary that a new US administration could push Ukraine to make peace with Russia.

The highlight of the visit will be the signing of the 100-year partnership agreement, covering areas from science to culture, with a particular focus on security.

The UK’s announcement includes more military and economic aid, and increased military collaboration on maritime security, drone technology, and healthcare.

Ukraine also wants its allies to send peacekeepers to patrol the current frontline, which could become a buffer zone in any peace agreement.