Johnson surprises Kyiv visit... meets Zelensky, proposes 'military training support'

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] British Prime Minister Boris Johnson made a surprise visit to Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, on the 17th (local time) and met with President Volodymyr Zelensky.

According to BBC, this is Johnson's second visit to Kyiv since Russia's invasion began in February.

Local media unanimously reported that this visit was made suddenly without prior notice. Johnson explained that the visit was "to deliver a clear and simple message that the UK stands with the people of Ukraine." He also posted on his Twitter with a photo meeting President Zelensky, saying, "Glad to be back in Kyiv."

President Zelensky also confirmed Johnson's visit through his Telegram channel and others, saying, "We are pleased that our great friend Prime Minister Johnson has visited Kyiv again."

The British Prime Minister's Office confirmed that Johnson proposed a UK-led plan to support military training for Ukraine. The scale is up to 10,000 people trained every 120 days.

Johnson described it as "a new major military program that can change the equation of the war." He emphasized, "The spirit, determination, and resilience of Ukrainians are stronger than ever, and their indomitable resolve will outlast President Vladimir Putin's futile ambitions."

BBC predicted that if President Zelensky accepts the proposal, discussions on the scale of the training will proceed. The training will take place outside Ukraine.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.