Burnham to visit Ukraine as UK backs long-range missile production

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to visit Ukraine on Monday, marking his first overseas trip since assuming office. During his visit, Burnham intends to announce British support for Ukraine's efforts to enhance its domestic production of long-range missiles. The Prime Minister will co-chair a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing, a group of nations backing Ukraine, and is expected to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Burnham announced that Britain has agreed to allow European missile manufacturer MBDA to share classified information regarding British-made components used in the SCALP long-range cruise missile. This move will enable France and Ukraine to establish local assembly lines for the missile, which shares British and French technology.

In a statement, Burnham emphasized that "Ukraine's security is our security," and pledged Britain's unwavering support for Ukraine, standing by the nation for as long as necessary. Since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, Britain has been one of Ukraine's strongest supporters, providing military assistance, economic aid, and diplomatic backing. The UK has pledged over £25 billion in military and civilian support so far.

Ukraine's reliance on long-range missiles has increased as the country targets Russian oil refineries and logistics facilities far from the front lines. Burnham's visit aims to reassure Ukraine and its allies that Britain will continue to play a leading role in fortifying Ukraine's security under his administration.