In brief
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has declared his role is to "repair bridges" between NATO allies, notably the United States and Ukraine. He reached out to President Volodymyr Zelensky with a call before the former’s Downing Street visit, stressing that Ukraine will not leave the UK empty‑handed. Burnham also hinted at further sanctions on Russia and accelerated delivery of UK air‑defence missiles. The move follows President Donald Trump’s controversial decision to lift diesel sanctions, sparking criticism across Europe. Zeal for a renewed partnership could shape the UK’s stance as the conflict in Ukraine escalates.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said it is his job to "repair bridges" between Ukraine and the United States, ahead of a meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky at Downing Street.
After President Donald Trump announced a deal with Moscow to import Russian diesel, Burnham responded by emphasizing a cautious approach to restoring alliances without directly criticizing the U.S. president.
He assured Zelensky that the UK would offer further military and financial support, and hinted at additional sanctions against Russia while committing to accelerate the delivery of air‑defence missiles to Kyiv.
During Prime Minister’s Questions, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey branded the diesel deal a “shameful betrayal” of Ukrainian people and European security. Burnham declined to echo the condemnation, stressing the importance of rebuilding bridges.
Burnham’s phone call to Zelensky came as the U.S. president claimed an energy ceasefire with Russia, a claim later disputed by Ukrainian officials. This represents the second UK visit by Zelensky since Burnham took office, following an earlier meeting at a naval base in Portsmouth.
