Zelenskyy proposes ratifying 100-year agreement with the UK

In January of this year, the United Kingdom and Ukraine signed a 100-year partnership agreement. The deal aims to establish strong ties between the two countries across the full range of relations — from trade, security, and defense to science and technology, education, culture, and more.

The agreement was signed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

"Today is a truly historic day. Relations between Ukraine and the UK are closer than ever. We have reached a new level, it is more than a strategic relationship. We have signed an agreement on a 100-year partnership," President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said at the time.

What the agreement includes

The document aims to strengthen military cooperation between the two countries in maritime security by creating a new framework to bolster safety in the Baltic, Black, and Azov seas and to counter Russian aggression.

It also provides for uniting experts to develop scientific and technological partnerships in health care, agrotechnology, space, drones, and education projects to foster stronger ties between the nations.

In addition, the agreement introduces a British verification system that will track illegally exported grain from temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories. The document confirms the UK’s role as a key Ukrainian partner in the energy sector, critical mineral extraction, and "green" steel production.

"From working together on the world stage to breaking down barriers to trade and growth and nurturing cultural links, the mutually beneficial partnership will see the UK and Ukraine advocate for each other to renew, rebuild and reform for generations to come," the UK government stated.

British officials also emphasized that the 100-year partnership is an important step in securing Ukraine’s long-term safety, ensuring that it "will never again be vulnerable to the brutality inflicted by Russia." The agreement commits the UK to stand shoulder to shoulder with sovereign Ukraine for the next century.

Contents of the agreement

The document underscores that NATO membership is the most reliable guarantee of Ukraine’s security, and the United Kingdom strongly supports Kyiv's irreversible course toward joining the Alliance.

Both sides agreed to advance key areas that go beyond the current war, recognizing Ukraine’s role in strengthening Euro-Atlantic security. Particular focus is placed on improving interoperability and enhancing Ukraine’s contribution as a future NATO member.

The agreement also stresses that rebuilding Ukraine is critical to its long-term progress. Joint efforts in this area will allow both countries to lead in vital sectors while promoting shared values. At the same time, Ukraine reaffirms its commitment to intensifying the fight against corruption in both the public and private sectors, in line with previously agreed terms.

The parties agreed on the following points:

• Strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
• Enhancing security and reaching consensus on Ukraine’s NATO membership.
• Building a maritime security partnership.
• Expanding economic and trade cooperation.
• Deepening collaboration in energy, climate, and clean energy transition.
• Enhancing cooperation in justice and accountability.
• Combating foreign information manipulation and interference.
• Strengthening leadership in science, technology, and innovation.
• Leveraging sociocultural ties.
• Cooperating on migration issues.

The agreement also states that where conditions allow for well-managed and safe mobility, both countries will take gradual steps to ease travel and mutual visits. They also plan to establish regular communication and exchange information on migration outcomes and policy intentions.

Implementation and duration

The agreement will come into force once both parties have notified each other of completing the necessary internal procedures.

It will remain in effect for 100 years unless either party terminates it. Amendments may be introduced, and any disputes regarding interpretation or application will be resolved through consultations between the parties — not through any national or international tribunal, court, or third party.

UK–Ukraine cooperation

The United Kingdom is one of Ukraine’s key defense allies. In January 2024, the two countries signed a 10-year bilateral security agreement. It includes commitments for financial, military, and other forms of support.

Under that deal, the UK pledged to swiftly provide full-spectrum security assistance, including advanced weapons, in the event of further Russian aggression. It also obligates London to impose economic and other sanctions against Russia.

Following the 10-year deal, Ukrainian officials announced plans to build a longer-term partnership with the UK lasting 100 years. The Office of the President of Ukraine described this as a "historic step" after a series of high-level talks.

Unlike the 10-year security agreement, the century-long partnership sets out broader and more ambitious goals for UK–Ukraine cooperation.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called the 100-year agreement "unprecedented" when commenting on it in July 2024.