British MPs from both houses, the House of Commons and the Lords, gathered in the main chamber of the Westminster Parliament to hear speech by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky, who is in London on an official visit this morning.

Hundreds of MPs gave him a standing ovation in what House of Commons Speaker Lindsey Hale called a “rare show” of solidarity as he greeted him in the room. Characteristically, the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and the leader of the Official Opposition, Keir Starmer, putting aside their political differences, stood side by side and applauded. An indication that the United Kingdom supports the Ukrainian people.

“The fight for one’s Motherland is not just a fight for the borders of one’s country, but a fight for freedom and democracy,” Lindsay Hale said, in particular, shortly before her speech to the President of Ukraine.

In turn, Mr. President Zelensky began his speech by saying,I have come here and stand before you on behalf of all Ukrainians who are fighting for their freedom, and on their behalf I would like to thank you for your valuable help.”

Among other things, he stressed that “London is on the side of Kyiv from the first moment.” He highlighted his contribution Boris Johnsonnoting that his significant assistance united all allies on the side of Ukraine.

“Ukraine and the UK have overcome the fear of war,” President Zelensky stressed, while noting that “we have already achieved remarkable results.” However, according to him, “the evil remains and the battle continues”, but he stated that he was convinced that this would be defeated. “We will defeat evil, and I know perfectly well that our victory will change the world,” remarked pointedly President of Ukraine.

Regarding UK aid, he said that Britain had been helping his country even before the Russian invasion. He supported the purchase of armored Challenger 2s, but also talked about training Ukrainians in England to use them effectively. “Your help is important not only for the future of Ukraine, but also for the future of EuropeZelensky stressed.

In a symbolic act, he presented the Speaker of the House with a Ukrainian pilot’s helmet with the inscription “We have freedom, give us wings to protect it.”

Meeting with King Charles

As part of his visit to the UK, President Zelensky also met with King Charles at Buckingham Palace. It was the first meeting between a British monarch and Zelensky.

Source: RES-IPE