Britain’s new Foreign Secretary David Cameron visited Ukraine for his first official trip abroad. During his visit, he met with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Kyiv and also traveled to the city of Odesa. The trip comes at a crucial time for Ukraine, as it has been engaged in a conflict with Russia for 21 months with no end in sight.
Cameron reaffirmed Britain’s support for Ukraine, emphasizing that the country will continue to receive moral, diplomatic, and military support. Specifically, Cameron mentioned providing military support for as long as it is necessary.
President Zelenskiy expressed gratitude for the visit, highlighting how global attention has shifted away from Ukraine due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. He stressed the importance of not diverting focus from the battlefield situation in Ukraine.
The visit also aimed to show solidarity with Ukraine, particularly as the country continues to rely on Western military and financial assistance. Ukraine has been closely monitoring any signs that this support may wane, following an unsuccessful counteroffensive against Russian forces.
Cameron’s itinerary included a visit to Odesa, where he praised Ukraine’s forces for pushing Russia back in the Black Sea and opening vital sea trade routes. He announced financial support to communities affected by the conflict and to volunteer organizations working in Ukraine.
Additionally, Cameron and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba met to discuss Britain’s steadfast support for Ukraine’s efforts to counter Russian threats, including in the Black Sea.
The visit coincided with Ukraine’s efforts to establish a shipping corridor for its seaborne exports after Russia withdrew from a U.N.-brokered deal in July.
Overall, Britain has maintained its strong alliance with Ukraine throughout the full-scale war launched by Russia in February 2022. Cameron’s visit served as a demonstration of the UK’s ongoing commitment to supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.