UK and Ukraine Forge a Landmark 100-Year Partnership in Historic Kyiv Agreement

On 16th January, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer and the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, signed a historic 100-Year Partnership Agreement between their nations. 

The agreement, which culminates nearly a year of meticulous preparation, outlines nine strategic areas of collaboration that will underpin a century of cooperation and shared progress. 

St. James’s Foreign Policy Group is honoured that its Founder & CEO, Aliona Hlivco, played a pivotal role as part of the task force within His Majesty’s Government that shaped this agreement. Central to the effort was ensuring that the partnership reflects a balanced and equitable vision, capitalising on the immense potential of both nations to drive mutual prosperity and advancement.  

Comprising both a Treaty and a Declaration – deliberate distinction made during negotiations – the agreement offers a robust framework for long-term collaboration while establishing actionable steps to achieve its ambitious objectives.  

Key provisions proposed by Aliona Hlivco include enhancing maritime security in the Black Sea region and securing a sustained UK presence to safeguard stability. The creation of rapid-response geopolitical formations between the UK, Ukraine, and allied nations – while stopping short of Ukraine’s membership in the Joint Expeditionary Force – marks a significant step towards greater interoperability as Ukraine advances towards NATO integration. 

Crucially, the agreement cements the UK’s unequivocal support for Ukraine’s future membership in the North Atlantic Alliance. This commitment represents a cornerstone for providing essential security guarantees to Ukraine and securing enduring peace across the European continent.  

The agreement also places unprecedented emphasis on Ukraine’s underutilised space industry, marking a new chapter in its development and recognition on the global stage.  

Ukraine’s defence sector, renowned for its cutting-edge renovations in technology and artificial intelligence, stands to benefit significantly from the establishment of a Joint Innovation Taskforce. This initiative will facilitate the exchange of expertise in areas such as drone operations and proliferation, defence AI, and advancement in electronic warfare – pivotal capabilities for addressing 21st century threats. 

Building on the 2020 Strategic Partnership Agreement,  the 100-Year Partnership lays groundwork for Ukraine to attract foreign investment and revitalise its economy. Structural reforms, enhanced transparency and the introduction of English and Welsh common law principles aim to modernise Ukraine’s legal and economic systems, creating a robust platform for reconstruction and sustainable growth.  

In an era of hybrid warfare and global uncertainty, societal resilience remains paramount. The agreement prioritises the development of measures to counter disinformation, foster social cohesion, and strengthen collective security across Europe. Ukraine’s frontline experience in combating hybrid threats offers valuable insights that will benefit its partners. To this end, the agreement promotes youth exchanges, joint veteran initiatives, and the expansion of cultural, scientific, and humanitarian ties as essential components of a resilient and united transatlantic community.  

This historic 100-Year Partnership underscores the shared commitment of the United Kingdom and Ukraine to a secure, prosperous, and interconnected future. Together, the two nations aim to set a new benchmark for strategic alliances in the 21st century.