British PM backs military aid, NATO membership for Ukraine

Newly elected UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has endorsed continued military aid for Ukraine, supporting its bid for NATO membership.

During the Prime Minister’s Questions session in the House of Commons on Wednesday, July 24, Starmer affirmed his commitment to arming Ukraine and advancing its NATO membership, echoing his agreement with opposition leader Rishi Sunak, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

This session marked Starmer's first appearance following the Labour Party's victory in the parliamentary elections. The Labour Party secured a majority in the House of Commons for the first time in 14 years after the early elections called by then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in late May.

As the new Prime Minister, Starmer confirmed the authorisation for British missiles to be used against Russian targets and pledged to double military support for Ukraine. He assured that Britain will continue its aid to Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Since the start of the Russo-Ukrainian war in February 2022, the United Kingdom has played a crucial role in supporting Ukraine through a broad array of military, humanitarian, and financial aid.

In terms of military assistance, the UK has supplied advanced weaponry, including anti-tank missiles such as the NLAW and Javelin, and air defence systems like the Starstreak missiles. The UK has also provided Challenger 2 tanks and armoured vehicles, alongside extensive training for Ukrainian troops on operational skills and the use of Western weaponry. This training is conducted both within the UK and in neighbouring countries. Additionally, the UK has contributed to intelligence sharing to help Ukraine counter Russian military strategies.

On the humanitarian front, the UK has allocated substantial funds for relief efforts, addressing the needs of displaced persons and providing medical supplies and food aid. This support extends to emergency shelter and housing for those affected by the conflict, both within Ukraine and in neighbouring countries hosting Ukrainian refugees.

Financially, the UK has offered significant economic aid aimed at stabilizing Ukraine’s economy, providing loans and grants to support the functioning of the Ukrainian government and repair infrastructure damaged by the war.

Diplomatically, the UK has been active in advocating for international support for Ukraine, including pushing for sanctions against Russia and promoting Ukraine's cause in global forums. The UK has also imposed economic sanctions on Russia, targeting key individuals, companies, and sectors critical to the Russian economy.