Britain will enter talks to join the European Union's 78 billion pound loan scheme for Ukraine, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced ahead of the European Political Community summit in Armenia on Monday.
The fund, established to support Ukraine's economic stability and reconstruction, operates separately from the EU's standard budget processes. British participation would mark a significant shift in post-Brexit cooperation on Ukraine aid, signaling alignment with continental European efforts despite Britain's departure from the bloc.
Starmer's commitment comes as Western nations coordinate increased financial support for Kyiv amid Russia's ongoing invasion. The UK has already provided substantial military and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine but joining the loan mechanism would deepen economic backing.
Details on the scope of British contributions or voting rights within the scheme remain unclear. The announcement follows months of diplomatic coordination among European democracies to strengthen Ukraine's finances and demonstrate unified Western resolve.
The summit in Armenia brings together leaders from across Europe and the wider political community to discuss shared security and economic challenges. Britain's move to negotiate membership suggests the government views coordinated Ukraine support as a priority area for international engagement, even as it charts an independent course outside EU structures.