The United Kingdom is set to begin negotiations to join a 78 billion pound European Union loan scheme designed to support Ukraine, in a move that signals closer cooperation with European partners. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is expected to outline the plan at a summit in Armenia, saying the talks aim to strengthen Ukraine's defences while creating opportunities for British companies to secure future contracts.

Sir Keir met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky ahead of the summit, reaffirming support for Ukraine and pledging continued pressure on Russia to secure what he described as a just and lasting peace. The British government is also expected to announce further sanctions targeting Russian companies to disrupt military supply chains.

European leaders recently approved the 90 billion euro loan package after Hungary lifted its veto, with most of the funding earmarked for defence and the remainder for broader financial support. The initiative comes as the prime minister seeks to reset relations with the European Union, stressing that deeper cooperation on security and the economy does not represent a reversal of Brexit.