Yvette Cooper commended the courageous Ukrainians for standing up to Russian aggression, expressing gratitude to Volodymyr Zelensky, stating, “You are doing this on behalf of us all.”
During their initial official meeting at the grand Office of the President Building, the Foreign Secretary was warmly welcomed by the Ukrainian President. Zelensky conveyed his appreciation for the visit, emphasizing its significance to Ukraine.
Cooper emphasized the importance of standing together, stating, “Your security is our security.” She acknowledged Ukraine’s resilience in the face of Russian aggression, affirming solidarity and support from the beginning until peace, victory, and the reconstruction of Ukraine.
Accompanied by the Mirror, the new Foreign Secretary embarked on her first overseas trip to Kyiv as a symbolic gesture of solidarity with Ukraine amid escalating Russian aggression. NATO countries remain on high alert following a breach of Polish airspace by Russian attack drones.
In response to Moscow’s recent aerial assault on Ukraine, including an attack on a key government building in Kyiv, the Foreign Secretary announced a series of new sanctions targeting Vladimir Putin’s military operations, intensifying economic and military pressure on Russia.
The UK’s stance against Putin’s invasion was reiterated by Cooper, pledging active measures to increase economic pressure and disrupt critical funding channels for the illegal war. The sanctions are part of the UK’s strategic efforts to support Ukraine and foster lasting peace in the region.
The sanctions target entities and individuals supplying essential materials for manufacturing missiles and weaponry to Russia. Additionally, sanctions were imposed on 70 vessels in Russia’s shadow fleet, which clandestinely export oil to fund the Kremlin’s war efforts.
Despite ongoing peace talks, Russia has escalated its military activities, launching numerous missiles and drones in recent attacks. Strategic locations in Kyiv, including government buildings and international offices, have been targeted in the conflict.
During her visit, Ms. Cooper surveyed the damage at the Cabinet of Ministers building and visited a charity supporting families displaced by Russian advances in eastern Ukraine. She also paid respects at the Memorial Wall honoring fallen Ukrainian soldiers alongside Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.
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