Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the UK on 27/7 and met with Prime Minister Andy Burnham, marking the first direct meeting between the two leaders since Burnham took office last week. Zelensky was also the first foreign leader Burnham hosted since assuming power. The visit centered on strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities, with a key announcement being the transfer of 'stone cloak' electronic warfare technology.

The UK government announced it would share intellectual property rights for the stone cloak technology with Ukraine. This system, roughly the size of a tablet, is designed to attach directly to unmanned aerial vehicles. British officials stated that stone cloak would make Russian air defense systems "unable to track and target" drones, significantly hindering their operations.

"This is the UK's best domestic innovation and has been proven on the frontline. It will play a key role in protecting the security of both nations," Prime Minister Burnham said during a joint statement with President Zelensky at a naval base in Portsmouth. The UK government has already supplied Ukraine with thousands of stone cloak devices, aiding its forces in maintaining drone operations and causing Russia to be "pushed back a step" in the conflict.

President Zelensky (left) and Prime Minister Burnham at a naval base in Portsmouth, UK on 27/7. *Photo: AP*

This technology transfer means Ukraine will no longer be entirely dependent on UK supplies and can domestically produce stone cloak systems in large quantities. This move underscores the deepening cooperation between the two nations, particularly in defense manufacturing.

President Zelensky expressed gratitude for the UK's consistent support. "Relations between Ukraine and the UK are better than ever. I thank Andy for his commitment to this relationship, as well as for his significant attention to our security and defense issues," he said. Prime Minister Burnham reiterated the UK's unwavering commitment, pledging that support for Ukraine "will not waver."

Ukrainian soldiers prepare to pilot a drone targeting Russian positions in Donetsk province on 14/7. *Photo: AP*

Before the meeting, the UK government indicated that discussions would cover how the UK-led training program is strengthening Ukraine's military. Zelensky highlighted key priorities for cooperation: air defense, maritime security, and joint defense production. He affirmed that this collaboration would strengthen both nations.

President Zelensky's visit occurred as Kyiv seeks to maintain close ties with London, one of Ukraine's strongest supporters since the conflict erupted in early 2022.

Pham Giang (According to Kyiv Independent, Kyiv Post, Sky News)