Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has presented Prime Minister Keir Starmer with a drone, now displayed at 10 Downing Street, following a meeting focused on security guarantees and defence cooperation. The gift symbolises Ukraine's growing drone production capabilities, which Zelenskyy described as “exceptional” and crucial for the frontline.
During the “productive meeting”, the leaders discussed security guarantees to ensure a durable peace if the US succeeds in pressing Russia to stop hostilities. Zelenskyy urged the UK to join NATO's Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) programme for equipment and munitions, and investment in Ukrainian drone production was a key agenda item.
Downing Street confirmed a “powerful sense of unity” between the two leaders, who looked ahead to upcoming talks between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. The UK economy grew by 0.3% in the second quarter, beating expectations, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves noting more work needed to ensure nationwide benefits.
