Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a significant appeal to the United Kingdom during a meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street, urging the new government to allow Ukrainian forces to strike deeper into Russian territory. This request comes as the UK, along with the United States and other allies, has imposed restrictions on Ukraine's use of Western weapons against Russia.
Zelensky's visit marked a historic moment, as he became the first foreign leader to address a UK cabinet meeting since former President Bill Clinton in 1997. During his address, he expressed gratitude for Britain's support but emphasized the urgent need for enhanced military capabilities, particularly long-range weaponry. He stated, \"Right now, we are missing the main answer to this question, and that is our long-range capability,\" highlighting the critical role such capabilities play in Ukraine's defense strategy.
The Ukrainian leader pointed to recent successes in defending against Russian advances, particularly in Kharkiv, as evidence of Ukraine's ability to halt further aggression. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken remarked that Ukraine is progressing towards being able to \"stand on its own feet militarily,\" a statement that underscores ongoing international support for Ukraine amid concerns about potential shifts in U.S. policy depending on the outcome of the upcoming presidential election.
In a separate but poignant event, mourners gathered to pay their respects to Corey Comparator, a firefighter who tragically lost his life while protecting his family during an attempted assassination of former President Trump. A procession led by a fire engine carrying Comparator's flag-draped casket took place at a Pennsylvania church where he was a longtime member, reflecting the community's grief and honoring his bravery.