Keir Starmer has made a surprise visit to Ukraine where he will sign a landmark 100-year partnership between Britain and the wartorn nation.

The Prime Minister will meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as they agree the historic tie-up.

The agreement will bolster defence and economic ties between the two countries, including help to beef up Ukraine’s maritime security to deter ongoing Russian aggression.

To mark the signing of the partnership, Sir Keir is also expected to announce new UK support for lethal military aid for Ukraine.

The Prime Minister said: “Putin’s ambition to wrench Ukraine away from its closest partners has been a monumental strategic failure. Instead, we are closer than ever, and this partnership will take that friendship to the next level.

“This is not just about the here and now, it is also about an investment in our two countries for the next century, bringing together technology development, scientific advances and cultural exchanges, and harnessing the phenomenal innovation shown by Ukraine in recent years for generations to come.

“The power of our long-term friendships cannot be underestimated. Supporting Ukraine to defend itself from Russia’s barbaric invasion and rebuild a prosperous, sovereign future, is vital to this government’s foundation of security and our Plan for Change.

“Through this partnership, we are creating a strong economy that works for the British people, a safe country that protects our interests at home and abroad, and a prosperous society.”

Today’s announcement adds to the £12.8 billion package of support the UK has given Ukraine, including £7.8 billion of military assistance, a commitment for £3 billion in military aid and energy infrastructure support to help hospitals.

The Prime Minister will also unveil £40 million for a new economic recovery programme to unlock hundreds of millions of pounds of private lending to bolster growth and economic resilience of small and medium-sized businesses in Ukraine.