Keir Starmer traveled to Ukraine to meet Volodymyr Zelensky for the first time since entering Downing Street, praising the two sides for being "closer than ever" just days before Donald Trump returns to the White House partnership.

The two countries will sign a partnership agreement to deepen existing defense ties and provide further military aid to Kyiv amid concerns that the United States may start to reduce support.

Trump, who will be sworn in on Monday, has repeatedly reiterated his pledge to quickly end the conflict in Ukraine. He is expected to meet Russian leader Vladimir Putin at the start of his term in office.

Zelensky urged Ukraine's Western allies to "not let slip" and continue to provide long-term military support to the troubled country, warning that halting aid "will only invite more aggression, chaos and war."

Starmer is expected to discuss what security guarantees Britain could provide to Kiev, including the possibility of British troops becoming part of a post-war peacekeeping force.

"Putin's ambition to separate Ukraine from its closest partners is a huge strategic failure. Instead, we are closer than ever, and this partnership will take that friendship to the next level," Star Say silently.

"The strength of our long-standing friendship cannot be underestimated. Supporting Ukraine to resist Russia's brutal invasion and rebuild a prosperous, sovereign future is critical to this administration's security foundation and our plan for change."

However, Zelensky said earlier this month that a ceasefire would only be effective if Washington provided security guarantees for Kiev, and that a ceasefire without such guarantees would only give Russia time to rearm.

Starmer's visit comes after Trump discussed the direction of the conflict with French President Emmanuel Macron following his return from Checkers last week. According to French sources, the two leaders discussed the importance of providing security guarantees to Ukraine.

The "100-Year Partnership" between Ukraine and the UK also aims to strengthen economic ties in non-military areas such as science and technology. Starmer will announce £40 million in funding for economic recovery, which the government says will create opportunities for British businesses.

The funding will target businesses that support the green economy and marginalized groups including women and veterans. On this basis, the UK has provided £12.8 billion in support to Ukraine, including £7.8 billion in military aid and continued energy infrastructure support.

“This is not just a matter of the here and now, but an investment in the next century between our two countries, combining technological development, scientific advancement and cultural exchange, and taking advantage of the amazing innovation that Ukraine has shown in recent years, passing on from generation to generation. "Come on," Starmer said.

“Through this partnership we are creating a strong economy that works for the British people, a secure state that protects our interests at home and abroad, and a prosperous society.”