The Russian Foreign Ministry has strongly criticized the newly announced 100-year partnership agreement between Ukraine and the United Kingdom, asserting that the two countries have “no room” for cooperation in the Sea of Azov. This agreement, revealed on Thursday during UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to Kyiv, has raised tensions with Moscow, which considers the Sea of Azov its own territory.
Russia Warns Against British Military Presence
The Kremlin has expressed concern over potential British military involvement in Ukraine under the new agreement, particularly in the Sea of Azov. The region, which Russia describes as its “internal sea,” is bordered by southern Russia, Russian-occupied territories in Ukraine, and the Crimean peninsula, which Russia annexed in 2014.
Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova called any British or Ukrainian claims to the Sea of Azov “a gross interference in the internal affairs of our country” and vowed that such actions “will be firmly resisted.”
Partnership Agreement Called “Worthless” by Russia
Zakharova dismissed the partnership as “worthless” for Russia, labeling it a “PR campaign” by Ukraine. However, the deal has been described by the UK as a step toward bolstering Ukraine’s security and sovereignty. The partnership includes increased military cooperation and security guarantees, focusing on the Baltic Sea, Black Sea, and Sea of Azov.
UK Pledges Long-Term Support for Ukraine
During his first visit to Kyiv as Prime Minister, Keir Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to Ukraine, pledging long-term support, including robust security guarantees if a ceasefire is reached with Russia. Starmer emphasized strengthening Ukraine’s defenses as part of the 100-year deal, positioning the UK as a key ally in Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty.
