“I welcome the UK signing the 100-Year Partnership with Ukraine, finalising an agreement that the Conservative Government had started negotiating, to build enduring links between our two countries for decades to come.”
A landmark agreement between Britain and Ukraine has been signed, solidifying an unbreakable partnership to deepen collaboration across defence, trade, technology, education, and cultural exchanges for the next century.
The deal, known as the 100-Year Partnership, formalises ties forged during Ukraine’s courageous resistance to Russia’s brutal invasion and builds on the UK’s steadfast support.
It promises to strengthen Britain’s defence capabilities, advance innovation, and create enduring bonds between the two nations.
Former Home Secretary Priti Patel welcomed the announcement, saying:
“I welcome the UK signing the 100-Year Partnership with Ukraine, finalising an agreement that the Conservative Government had started negotiating, to build enduring links between our two countries for decades to come.
We launched negotiations with Ukraine on this Partnership because we wanted to build on our strong security and defence cooperation with deeper ties on trade, science, tech, education, culture, and so much more.”
A Long-Term Vision for Mutual Growth
The agreement spans nine key pillars, including defence collaboration, technological partnerships, and economic recovery. It will foster scientific research in areas like healthcare, space, and agri-tech, while also supporting cultural exchanges to strengthen ties between communities.
On the defence front, the partnership will enhance maritime security in the Black Sea and beyond, creating a framework to counter Russian aggression. Additionally, the UK has pledged ongoing military assistance and a £40 million economic recovery programme to bolster Ukraine’s economy by unlocking private investment and supporting small and medium businesses.
Ukraine’s thriving technology sector and highly skilled military make it a valuable ally for Britain’s security and innovation strategies. The partnership also cements the UK as a preferred partner for Ukraine’s energy, green steel, and critical minerals sectors.
Supporting Ukrainian Communities
The announcement includes a host of initiatives to support Ukrainian communities still reeling from the impact of the war. This includes £100 million in humanitarian aid, much of which is being used to treat patients in hospitals with severe injuries caused by Russian missile strikes.
Specialist NHS doctors are assisting Ukrainian medical teams, providing virtual consultations and on-the-ground support for complex cases. Many patients being treated have burns covering 30% to 40% of their bodies.
The UK is also introducing a new Grain Verification Scheme to help Ukraine trace stolen grain from Russian-occupied territories, ensuring global food security and protecting Ukraine’s vital agricultural sector.
Building Bridges for Future Generations
Education is a cornerstone of the new partnership, with 100 schools across Britain and Ukraine set to partner in cultural exchange programmes. Students will share stories from their cultures and explore the resilience fostered through reading and storytelling, creating lasting bonds between the next generation of British and Ukrainian citizens.
The UK marked the signing of the agreement by joining a live video call between Ukrainian students and a primary school in Liverpool, highlighting the importance of fostering mutual understanding and cooperation at every level.
A Strategic Alliance for a Changing World
The 100-Year Partnership represents a bold step in ensuring Ukraine’s security and prosperity while advancing Britain’s global influence. By creating enduring ties across multiple sectors, the UK is reaffirming its commitment to standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Ukraine for the long haul.
This historic agreement not only strengthens Britain’s national security but also opens up new opportunities for trade, investment, and cultural enrichment, ensuring both nations are better prepared to face the challenges of the future.
As Priti Patel said, this partnership builds on the UK’s existing cooperation with Ukraine and “sets the stage for deeper ties in trade, science, tech, and more, ensuring enduring links for decades to come.”
