Prime Minister Keir Starmer has declared that the international community must maintain its focus on the Ukraine conflict, despite escalating tensions in the Middle East. The statement came as he welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to 10 Downing Street for high-level discussions.
Unwavering Support Amid Global Crises
Sir Keir stressed the critical importance of sustained support for Ukraine, directly addressing concerns that attention might shift due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran. "I think it's really important that we are clear that the focus must remain on Ukraine," the Prime Minister stated. "There's obviously a conflict in Iran going on, in the Middle East, but we can't lose focus on what's going on in Ukraine and the need for our support."
Zelensky's Address to Parliament
During a historic address to the British parliament, President Zelensky revealed significant developments in Ukraine's military cooperation with international allies. He confirmed the deployment of Ukrainian military experts to the Middle East and Gulf region to assist in countering Iranian-made Shahed drones, a weapon system Russia has extensively used against Ukrainian cities.
"Right now, there are 201 Ukrainians in the Middle East and Gulf region, and another 34 are ready to deploy," Zelensky announced. "These are military experts, experts who know how to help, how to defend against such drones." The Ukrainian leader specified that teams have already arrived in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, with additional personnel en route to Kuwait.
Drone Production and Defence Capabilities
In a remarkable demonstration of Ukraine's growing defence industrial capacity, Zelensky disclosed that his country is now producing approximately 2,000 interceptor drones daily. He further indicated that Ukraine could supply half of this production to allied nations to bolster their defensive capabilities.
The president also revealed ongoing development of advanced drone systems, including underwater drones and ocean-capable models, showcasing Ukraine's evolution from a recipient of military aid to a provider of cutting-edge defence technology.
Energy Infrastructure and Diplomatic Developments
Separately, Ukraine has accepted the European Union's offer of technical support and funding to restore oil flows through the damaged Druzhba pipeline. In a letter to the EU, Zelensky indicated that repair work was nearing completion, with the pumping station expected to be restored within 30-45 days, provided there are no further Russian attacks.
This development follows Hungary and Slovakia being cut off from Russian oil deliveries via the Druzhba pipeline since late January, after Ukrainian authorities reported damage from a Russian strike.
International Mediation Efforts
In diplomatic developments, Turkey has offered to host the next round of peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan proposed a venue to Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov during a telephone conversation, emphasising the regional and international risks posed by the prolonged conflict.
The discussion also addressed energy security concerns, particularly regarding the protection of the Blue Stream and TurkStream gas pipelines, which Moscow claims have been targeted by Ukrainian attempts to damage infrastructure.
Strategic Alliances and Defence Cooperation
During his visit, Zelensky also met with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte to discuss strengthening Ukraine's air defence capabilities. The Ukrainian president expressed gratitude for initiatives allowing missile purchases for Patriot systems and emphasised the importance of preventing Russia from benefiting from Middle East instability.
Prime Minister Starmer reinforced this position, stating that Vladimir Putin must not be allowed to benefit from higher global oil prices or easing sanctions as a result of Middle East tensions.
Zelensky concluded his UK visit by meeting with King Charles III, thanking Britain for its support during what he described as a "difficult winter" for Ukraine, during which Russian forces targeted critical energy infrastructure amid freezing conditions.
