Zelensky's First Trip to the UK... Support Including Fighter Pilot Training

Zelensky Meets UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on 8th
Also Meets Ukrainian Soldiers Training in the UK

[Asia Economy Reporter Geum Boryeong] Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, visiting the United Kingdom for the first time, has agreed to receive additional support from the UK, including fighter pilot training and "long-range capabilities."

According to the UK Prime Minister's Office on the 8th (local time), President Zelenskyy visited the UK, held talks with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and then delivered a speech in Parliament. He will also meet with Ukrainian soldiers training in the UK.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who visited the United States last year, is delivering a speech at the United States Capitol in Washington, DC. (Photo by AFP Yonhap News)

This is President Zelenskyy's second overseas trip since the outbreak of the war, following his visit to the United States last year.

The Prime Minister's Office announced that, in line with this visit, the scope of Ukrainian military training will be expanded to include fighter pilots and marines, and the pace of military equipment support will be accelerated.

According to the Prime Minister's Office, once Ukrainian pilots complete their training, they will be able to operate NATO-standard fighter jets. Over the past six months, the UK has trained 10,000 new Ukrainian soldiers. This year, an additional 20,000 are planned.

Last week, Ukrainian soldiers arrived in the UK to learn how to operate the Challenger 2 main battle tanks provided by the UK.

During the talks, Prime Minister Sunak plans to propose providing Ukraine with long-range capabilities. In this case, the Prime Minister's Office expects it will help prevent Russia from targeting Ukrainian civilians and critical national infrastructure, and reduce pressure on the Ukrainian front lines.

Additionally, the UK plans to impose further sanctions on individuals who have contributed to the personal wealth accumulation of Russian President Vladimir Putin and companies benefiting from the Russian war authorities.