Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will make his first visit to the UK today since the start of Russia's invasion.
His trip will include a meeting with the Prime Minister and Ukrainian troops. It is understood that the leaders will discuss how the UK can support Ukraine with military equipment and bolster long-term support.
As part of the military support, the Prime Minister is expected to expand the UK's offer of training Ukrainian troops which will include fighter jet pilots helping troops fly sophisticated Nato-standard fighter jets. An offer will also be made to begin the immediate training programme for marines.
Read next: Residents left perplexed after mysterious orange marks appear on trees in their neighbourhood
"President Zelensky’s visit to the UK is a testament to his country’s courage, determination and fight, and a testament to the unbreakable friendship between our two countries," Rishi Sunak said.
"Since 2014, the UK has provided vital training to Ukrainian forces, allowing them to defend their country, protect their sovereignty and fight for their territory. I am proud that today we will expand that training from soldiers to marines and fighter jet pilots, ensuring Ukraine has a military able to defend its interests well into the future.
"It also underlines our commitment to not just provide military equipment for the short term, but a long-term pledge to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Ukraine for years to come.”
President Zelensky and his team will also hold a meeting with the UK's defence and security leaders, including the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of the Air Staff to iron out details of the training programme. It is also understood that the UK will announce further sanctions today against Russia at 11am.
The sanction come in response to Russia's continued attack of Ukraine and will supposedly target those who have helped Putin build his personal wealth and companies profiting from the war.
Read more:
- 'I was branded an attention seeker by my GP - I actually had a deadly condition'
- Romantic beauty spots in Greater Manchester to visit this Valentine’s Day
- Boy, 14, who died during police chase was driving car that had been stolen in armed robbery, inquest hears
- Lap dancing club is allowed to stay open despite claims it makes Manchester look 'seedy'
- Disgusting thug boasted of being a 'wife beater' as he repeatedly strangled girlfriend
