British Prime Minister Andy Burnham visited Kyiv on August 24, 2026, to announce UK support for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia [1, 2, 3]. As part of the visit, Burnham publicly presented classified information on British-made components used to produce SCALP (Storm Shadow) long-range cruise missiles, which the UK government declassified and provided to Ukraine [1, 2, 3]. The SCALP missile can strike targets roughly 250 kilometers away [3].

Burnham said the UK is committed to standing with Ukraine "for as long as it takes" and pledged to continue support until there is "a just and lasting peace" [2]. He told Ukrainian audiences he was "proud of the contribution our country has made" and declared Ukraine’s security is also the UK’s security [2]. The support helps Kyiv eventually build its own versions of these advanced missiles, though that process may take years [2].

Russian Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov condemned the UK’s move, accusing Britain of being "involved in this war on the side of the Kyiv regime" and saying it "methodically and regularly adds fuel to the fire" [1, 2]. Peskov said London’s actions "hatch schemes to prevent even the slightest progress in the peaceful settlement process," and thus hinder a peaceful resolution to the conflict [1, 2, 3].

Russia is actively gathering intelligence to identify missile production facilities in Ukraine and reportedly plans to destroy them [1, 2, 3]. Amid growing tensions, Kyiv expected increased Russian missile attacks on its Independence Day, August 24, reflecting heightened ballistic missile presence and possible expansion of Russian conscription [2].

Burnham’s Kyiv visit marked his first trip abroad since becoming UK prime minister and underscored London’s deepening support for Ukraine’s defense capabilities [1, 2, 3]. The missile data transfer aims to help Ukraine strengthen its long-range strike capacity over time but comes amid Moscow’s determination to counter these efforts.

The British leader stressed the enduring friendship between the UK and Ukraine, promising cooperation "in both the fight and in the rebuilding to come" and affirming that Russia "should be in no doubt of our resolve" [2].