UK’s Cooper Pledges £142 Million Winter Aid to Ukraine on First Visit to Kyiv
Britain’s newly appointed Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper made Kyiv one of her first official destinations, underscoring the importance London places on Ukraine’s security.
The Gaze reports this, referring to a statement made by the UK government.
During her visit on Friday, Cooper unveiled a £142 million ($183 million) package to help the country endure the coming winter and strengthen its resilience into next year.
The aid package includes £100 million in humanitarian assistance for civilians in frontline areas.
According to the UK government, the funds will be used to repair vital water and heating systems, provide emergency relief for those affected by Russian strikes, and support jobs and livelihoods.
An additional £42 million will be directed toward repairing Ukraine’s power grid and shielding gas and energy infrastructure from further attacks.
“Ukraine’s security is crucial to the UK’s security,” Cooper said, stressing that the UK’s commitment to Ukraine remains “steadfast and stronger than ever.”
She condemned Russia’s ongoing bombardment of civilians and President Vladimir Putin’s obstruction of peace efforts.
“Putin’s bombardment of Ukrainian civilians, his stalling and delaying in internationally-backed peace talks, and his blatant disregard for human life must end,” the politician added.
While in Kyiv, Cooper is scheduled to meet President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, and Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko.
Her talks will focus on joint priorities within the UK–Ukraine strategic dialogue, which will conclude with a meeting between the British Prime Minister and Ukraine’s president.
The foreign secretary will also visit government buildings and residential areas damaged in recent Russian strikes, highlighting the human toll of Moscow’s ongoing aggression.
As The Gaze reported earlier, Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, arrived in Kyiv at the invitation of the Ukrainian government, accompanied by representatives of the Invictus Games Foundation.