Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy in a meeting on September 11, 2024. President Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude for their participation in the Crimean Platform, noting its significance especially this year, marking 80 years since the deportation of Crimean Tatars from their homeland.
President Zelenskyy conveyed appreciation for the support provided by both the United States and the United Kingdom since the beginning of the full-scale war. "Thanks to your president, President Biden, and Congress bipartisan support. We’re very thankful for your support, huge support," he stated. He also acknowledged the UK's continuous backing.
Secretary Blinken reaffirmed the united stance of the United States and other countries in supporting Ukraine. "The United States, the United Kingdom, united for Ukraine," he said. Blinken emphasized ongoing efforts to bolster Ukraine's success and victory.
Foreign Secretary Lammy highlighted the historic nature of this joint visit with his U.S. counterpart and reiterated unwavering support for Ukraine’s struggle against Russian aggression. He expressed condolences on behalf of Britain for recent civilian casualties and criticized Russia's reliance on Iranian ballistic missiles contributing to further loss of life in Ukraine.
"We come here at a critical moment," Lammy noted, emphasizing their mission to strategize on forthcoming months with a firm determination that Ukraine must prevail in its fight against Russian imperialism.
