UK to hand Ukraine SCALP missile data as PM visits Kyiv
Photo: UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham (Getty Images)
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has arrived in Kyiv for his first foreign visit since taking office – coinciding with Ukraine's Independence Day, according to an official statement from the UK government.
What exactly will be provided to Ukraine
The UK government has authorized defense company MBDA to declassify information about the British components of the SCALP long-range missile – the French variant of the British Storm Shadow. Both missiles share joint French and British technologies.
This will allow France and Ukraine to establish local assembly of the missiles directly on Ukrainian territory.
Previously, Britain became the first country to supply Ukraine with long-range weapons for defensive purposes back in 2023 – this new step complements broader British efforts to develop affordable long-range weaponry for Ukraine under the Brakestop project.
Symbolism of the visit
Burnham is visiting Kyiv just weeks after hosting President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the UK in July – a visit that marked the new prime minister's first time receiving a foreign guest.
"On Ukraine’s 35th anniversary of independence, the Ukrainian people should be in no doubt: the UK is behind you today and for as long as it takes," Burnham said.
He added that he is proud of his country's contribution to supporting Ukraine and wants Ukrainians to hear from him personally that this support will not waver.
"After all, Ukraine’s security is our security," the prime minister emphasized, adding that Russia should have no doubt about Britain's resolve, which will not back down until a just and lasting peace is achieved.
What else is planned during the visit
In Kyiv, Burnham will take part in Independence Day events and will chair a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing for the first time – an international group that discusses continued support for Ukraine. The prime minister is expected to receive an award on behalf of the British people in recognition of Britain's support for Ukraine.
RBC-Ukraine has already written extensively about UK-Ukraine relations under the new prime minister. Recently, Zelenskyy held a meeting with Burnham, during which the leaders agreed on several steps for bilateral cooperation. It has also become known that Putin is preparing tests for Britain's new Prime Minister.
