Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has told Ukrainians the UK will back them "today and always", as Kyiv marks 33 years since it declared independence from the Soviet Union.Sir Keir described his seven-word message to front-line fighters and people who have sought refuge in the UK as "crystal clear", and the Government confirmed community groups, councils and parishes have planned events to mark the anniversary.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has told Ukrainians the UK will back them "today and always", as Kyiv marks 33 years since it declared independence from the Soviet Union.Sir Keir described his seven-word message to front-line fighters and people who have sought refuge in the UK as "crystal clear", and the Government confirmed community groups, councils and parishes have planned events to mark the anniversary.