Yvette Cooper is set to express Britain’s steadfast backing for Ukraine during her visit to the conflict-ridden nation today.
On her inaugural trip as Foreign Secretary, Ms. Cooper journeyed to Kyiv, where she is scheduled to confer with President Zelenskyy, key ministers, and Ukrainian citizens enduring Russia’s illegal incursion.
The visit occurs amidst escalating tensions following the downing of Russian drones by Poland and Nato for breaching Polish airspace early Wednesday. Additionally, it follows Russia’s most extensive aerial attack on Ukraine since the conflict’s inception, resulting in the strike on a significant government edifice in Kyiv.
Ms. Cooper is to inspect the heavily damaged Cabinet of Ministers building and a residential structure demolished by Russia, where she will engage with affected families and children.
During her visit, Ms. Cooper unveiled a £142 million UK aid package to assist Ukraine throughout the winter and beyond. Of this amount, £100 million is designated for crucial humanitarian support to aid civilians in frontline areas, shield vulnerable populations, and deliver emergency relief to those impacted by Russia’s ongoing assaults.
The aid will encompass the restoration of essential water and heating systems, as well as efforts to bolster livelihoods, employment, and enhance Ukrainian resilience during the fourth winter of Russia’s illicit conflict. Additionally, the UK will allocate £40 million to rehabilitate Ukraine’s energy infrastructure ravaged by Russian actions.
This commitment aligns with a funding pledge made by Keir Starmer earlier this year to bolster Ukraine against Russia and aid civilians enduring Vladimir Putin’s brutal campaign.
Expressing her stance, Ms. Cooper emphasized, “I have opted to visit Ukraine in my initial days as Foreign Secretary because Ukraine’s security is integral to the UK’s security. Our support remains resolute and stronger than ever, cognizant of the enduring security and stability risks posed by Russian aggression, not solely to Ukraine but to Europe at large and all of us here in the UK.”
During her itinerary, Ms. Cooper is also slated to meet with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, Foreign Minister Sybiha, and Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko.
Through continuous military assistance, the lifesaving funding announcement, the UK-Ukraine 100 Year Partnership, and ongoing leadership within the Coalition of the Willing, the UK pledges enduring companionship with Ukraine to secure a just and enduring peace.
Ms. Cooper highlighted the urgency for an end to Putin’s bombardment of Ukrainian civilians, his obstruction in internationally-backed peace negotiations, and his callous disregard for human life.
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