Andy Burnham reaffirms UK support for Ukraine in first speech as Prime Minister
Newly appointed Prime Minister Andy Burnham has pledged unwavering support for Ukraine, assuring that the UK’s backing would remain “resolute” under his leadership, reports BritPanorama.
Burnham indicated that President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine would be one of his initial international calls following his assumption of office, succeeding Sir Keir Starmer.
Additionally, Burnham plans to reach out to US President Donald Trump, marking a brisk start to his foreign relations agenda.
Though he possesses limited foreign policy experience, having served primarily at the local level in Greater Manchester, Burnham highlighted his collaborations with Ukrainian mayors as pivotal to his understanding of their needs.
He stated his commitment to personally support Zelensky and reiterated the UK’s pledge to Ukraine. “Those will be my first calls, and I’ll be making very clear later today to President Zelensky that there is no change,” Burnham added.
During a press briefing, he remarked, “I will be with him 100 per cent as Keir Starmer has been, and Keir has done really quite an incredible job in not just backing Ukraine but being there in a personal way.”
Burnham stressed that his past cooperation with Ukrainian mayors has prepared him for this new role, asserting that Britain’s support for Ukraine is both steadfast and resolute. He stated, “It will be there for him and I will be there for him personally too.”
In his inaugural address as Prime Minister, Burnham emphasized a commitment to decentralising power from Westminster, aiming to provide more control to the public regarding essential aspects of life. He spoke candidly about the current cost-of-living crisis and expressed a commitment to address it.
Furthermore, he pledged to “end rough sleeping in our country,” a significant commitment amid ongoing social challenges. Burnham was heartily cheered by supporters upon his arrival in Downing Street. He reflected on the rapid succession of leaders, stating, “I am acutely conscious that I am the sixth person in the last 10 years to walk up this street… making this a moment for reflection and new resolution.”
Burnham concluded his remarks by calling for collective responsibility, urging the nation to “pull with me” to cultivate a renewed sense of unity and purpose. His opening day, therefore, is illustrative of both his domestic and international priorities as he embarks on his term in office.
