Kremlin expresses concern over UK-Ukraine “100-year pact”

Russia has expressed concern over the growing proximity of British military infrastructure to its borders, following the announcement of the 100-year partnership agreement between London and Kyiv.

While the agreement does not signify Ukraine’s immediate membership in NATO, the Kremlin views it as a significant development, especially considering the involvement of the UK, a NATO member, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told a briefing, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

Peskov acknowledged the agreement but emphasized that it does not guarantee Ukraine’s accession to NATO. However, he pointed out that the expansion of British military presence near Russia’s borders raises considerable concern.

“This is not a provision that guarantees Ukraine's membership in the alliance. However, the fact that Britain, as a NATO member, is advancing its military infrastructure closer to our borders is certainly a matter of great concern,” Peskov stated.

On January 16, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer signed a historic 100-year partnership agreement in Kyiv, solidifying the two nations’ commitment to long-term cooperation across multiple sectors.

The comprehensive agreement spans defence, energy, trade, science, culture, and beyond, building upon previous agreements, including the 2020 trade and partnership deal and the bilateral security pact signed in January 2024, Caliber.Az reports citing Ukrainian media.

The partnership includes ten key pillars.

The UK has been one of Ukraine’s largest military supporters, having pledged £12.8 billion in military and civilian aid since Russia’s full-scale invasion. Additionally, the UK has trained more than 50,000 Ukrainian troops on British soil. During his visit, Starmer is expected to announce an additional £40 million (€47.4 million) in aid to support Ukraine’s post-war economic recovery.

By Vafa Guliyeva