World

Ukraine President Zelensky makes historic visit to UK, says ‘Russia will lose war’, meets Rishi Sunak, King Charles III

February 8, 2023
Bharat Times

New Delhi: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a historic visit to Britain on Wednesday (February 8, 2023) and addressed British MPs. During an impassioned address to parliament, Zelensky, who wore his trademark olive drab sweatshirt, predicted that Russia would lose the war against his country. He thanked the British people for their support from “day one” since the military invasion of Moscow.

Zelensky said, “I stand before you on behalf of your brave soldiers who are under artillery fire right now.” and praised the ‘strong British character’.

Ukraine “will always rise above evil”, Zelensky said.

“It is at the core of our traditions and yours,” he said before meeting with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

“We know that freedom will win, we know that Russia will be defeated and victory will change the world,” the Ukrainian president declared in his address to Westminster Hall.

He also met King Charles III at Buckingham Palace.

It was his first visit to the UK since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

Zelensky’s UK visit is testament to Ukraine’s courage: Rishi Sunak

Rishi Sunak detailed the UK’s ongoing support for Ukrainian fighter jet pilots and marines to help boost their defensive capabilities.

“President Zelensky’s visit to the UK is a testament to his country’s courage, determination and fight, and to the unwavering friendship between our two countries,” he added.

“Since 2014, the UK has provided vital training to Ukrainian forces, enabling them to defend their country, defend their sovereignty and fight for their territory. I am proud that today we are delivering on that Training will expand from soldiers to marines and fighter jet pilots, ensuring Ukraine has a military capable of well-deserved defense of its interests in the future,” Sunak said.