By: Max Yang

On June 18th, the UK’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson visited Ukraine to discuss a training program for the Ukrainian troops to support them in winning the war with Russia. Johnson stated that the training program would harness “that most powerful of the forces, the Ukrainian determination to win.” The plan would have potential to train up to 10,000 soldiers every 120 days and would allow them to “accelerate their deployment, rebuild their forces and scale-up their resistance.”

According to Johnson, soldiers would learn “battle-winning skills for the front line, as well as basic medical training, cyber-security, and counter explosive tactics”. The program was well welcomed and so was Boris Johnson. Ukraine’s president was extremely grateful for the assistance and described Johnson as his country’s “great friend”.

The Prime Minister announced his visit on social media by posting a picture of himself with the Ukrainian president with the message: “Mr. President, Volodymyr. It is good to be in Kyiv again.” The president replied by posting an enthusiastic message greeting the Prime Minister.

Many political leaders have visited to Ukraine before the Prime Minister. Following their trips, the European Commission backed Ukraine’s bid to join the European Union, meaning that they have positive feelings about Ukraine’s ability to meet the conditions for joining.

Ukraine being one step closer to joining the E.U. could turn the tide of the war. Many powerful countries are backing Ukraine and giving the country military support. It is yet unclear if this will affect Russia’s war effort.