Volodymyr Zelensky makes a surprise visit to the UK

London: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a surprise visit to Britain on Wednesday, his second trip abroad since Vladimir Putin’s invasion almost 12 months ago.

Zelensky landed at Stansted Airport in London and was embraced by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. He greets him in Downing Street before the President of Ukraine visits Charles III at Buckingham Palace.

Zelensky will address the House of Commons before visiting Ukrainian troops training in British territory in the South West of England.

In December, Zelensky left the country for the first time since the war began, visiting the United States, where he addressed Congress, speaking entirely in English. He will also use English in his Wednesday speech at Westminster.

Sunak will announce new assistance to Ukraine, including an expanded training program for Marines and fighter pilots, with the goal of training them to use NATO-standard jets in the future.

In a statement, Mr Sunak said Mr Zelensky’s visit was a testament to Ukraine’s courage, determination and struggle.

“And it is a testament to the enduring friendship between our two countries,” Sunak said.

“Today, we are proud to extend our training from soldiers to marines to fighter pilots, ensuring that Ukraine will have a military force capable of defending its interests well into the future.