Defence Secretary Wes Streeting has reaffirmed Britain’s commitment to Ukraine after visiting the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral in London on the country’s Independence Day.
Streeting said the visit was a powerful reminder of the resilience of Ukrainians as they continue to defend their country against Russia’s invasion.
Writing on X, he said:
“It was an honour to visit the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral in London this evening.
“A moving reminder, on their independence day, of the enduring strength of Ukrainians defending their freedom, and freedom everywhere.
“Britain stands with you, today and always.”
Streeting’s intervention carries particular significance in his role as Defence Secretary, with Ukraine among the UK’s most important strategic defence partnerships. The Ministry of Defence lists responsibility for the UK’s relationship with Ukraine among the Defence Secretary’s core responsibilities.
His message came as Prime Minister Andy Burnham visited Ukraine to mark the country’s 35th Independence Day and reaffirm Britain’s military and political support for Kyiv.
Burnham described Ukraine as “Europe’s protector” and argued that supporting the country strengthens the security of Britain and the wider continent.
The UK has also recently taken command of the multinational force being prepared to deploy to Ukraine if hostilities end, with a senior British officer taking command of the operation in July.
Streeting’s visit to the cathedral brought a community dimension to those wider defence and foreign policy commitments.
The Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral in London has become an important focal point for Britain’s Ukrainian community, particularly since Russia’s full-scale invasion, providing a place for worship, remembrance and solidarity.
The Defence Secretary’s message underlined the Government’s position that Britain’s backing for Ukraine will continue both militarily and politically, while recognising the Ukrainian communities who have made their home in the UK.
As Ukrainians marked another Independence Day during wartime, Streeting said Britain would stand alongside them “today and always”.
