UK preparing to host Volodymyr Zelensky for state visit in 2027

Britain is preparing to host Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky for a state visit in 2027, it is understood.The event would aim to project solidarity with Ukraine in what will be the fifth year of its war against Russia.According to the Financial Times, which first reported that the Government is considering the visit, the timing is yet to be decided.But it would likely not coincide with the G20 summit in Manchester next November, which Mr Zelensky is also invited to.Government officials said the visit was not yet finalised, but is expected to take place.The move could risk a rise in tensions with US President Donald Trump, who has been critical of Mr Zelensky in recent weeks, and who appears to have become closer to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, who started the war.Andy Burnham shakes hands with Volodymyr Zelensky ahead of a meeting at number 10 Downing Street (Henry Nicholls/PA)PA WireThe state visit, usually a grand affair involving a lavish banquet, would likely be recast so it is more appropriate for Mr Zelensky’s status as a wartime leader, the FT also said.Mr Zelensky has visited the UK some 13 times since the start of the war, most recently to meet Andy Burnham in Downing Street, when he received a guard of honour.He previously met Sir Keir Starmer when he was premier, and the King, who would be the host of a state visit.Mr Zelensky addressed hundreds of MPs, peers and officials in Parliament in 2023, and would likely make a similar address in the event of a state visit, the FT reported.