Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is in London as of October 24, 2025, for high-level talks with European leaders and key allies focused on bolstering Ukraine’s defense against ongoing Russian aggression. Hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the meeting gathers more than 20 leaders, including representatives joining via videoconference as part of the coalition known as the ‘Coalition of the Willing.’
The agenda includes discussions on increasing military aid, particularly long-range missile supplies, to boost Ukraine’s capability to target deep inside Russian territory. With winter approaching, a critical concern is protecting Ukraine’s power grid from Russia’s near-daily drone and missile attacks, which have caused rolling outages even in Kyiv.
Zelenskyy met with King Charles III at Windsor Castle and held talks with Prime Minister Starmer and other leaders at Downing Street, underscoring the United Kingdom’s strong support for Ukraine. The summit seeks to ramp up pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has so far rejected peace proposals and continues to justify the ongoing invasion.
The allies are also coordinating fresh sanctions targeting Russia’s vital oil and gas revenues, aiming to further cripple its war effort amid Moscow’s resourceful attempts to evade previous sanctions.
Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the coalition for their solidarity and underscored Ukraine’s ongoing struggle against a humanitarian disaster Russia seems intent on causing this winter. Prime Minister Starmer reaffirmed his country’s commitment, stating, “We’re not alone in this situation… always.”
This high-profile meeting symbolizes a united front by Western countries to support Ukraine’s defense, enhance deterrence capabilities, and maintain international pressure on Russia to cease its invasion.