The Ukrainian leader's visit to London was part of efforts to reinforce backing from allies following a tumultuous week in US-Ukraine relations. Trump's decision to release an initial 300,000 tonnes of Russian diesel bypasses Western sanctions and has alarmed European partners.
Burnham told Zelensky: 'You have seen the solidarity and the support you have got from everybody here in Britain. We are behind you and that will not change.' The prime minister said Ukraine was willing to discuss an energy ceasefire proposed by Trump but accused Russia of responding with 'further attacks on critical national infrastructure in Ukraine.'
Ukraine reported that overnight strikes by Russian missiles and drones had left at least 600,000 people without electricity. For the second consecutive night, Ukraine said it had not received advanced warning from its allies of a wave of missile strikes coming from Russia. Zelensky has suggested the US had threatened to restrict intelligence-sharing unless he agreed to sign up to an energy ceasefire. Trump has denied the US is holding back information.
Burnham avoided direct criticism of Trump, telling MPs his role was to 'repair bridges so that the support comes back.' He acknowledged that Zelensky was 'carrying the heaviest of weights.' The prime minister said Zelensky would not come away from his trip 'empty-handed.'
Zelensky thanked Britain as 'one of the strongest partners in our history.' Earlier in the day, at Prime Minister's Questions, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey had asked Burnham if he agreed there had been a 'shameful Trump betrayal.' Burnham declined that language but acknowledged the recent days had been 'dark and difficult' for Ukraine.