bbc world in just a few moments on bbc world in just a few moments as well to keep you right up to date with this breaking story. you are watching bbc news. welcome to viewers on bbc world joining us here on the bbc news channel as we bring you news on the last few moments that the us presidentjoe biden has arrived in ukraine. we have confirmation in the last few seconds he has arrived in the capital kyiv. it is a year this week since russia invaded ukraine and there is intense diplomatic activity as the anniversary approaches. hugely significant thatjoe biden arrives in kyiv. showing his

solidarity. president zelensky arrived in washington on his first visit outside ukraine since the russian invasion. on that visit he repeated his call, call we have heard frequently at that point, for more help from allies, especially in relation to the delivery of tanks and other heavy artillery that president zelensky says is crucial to ukraine's continued defence of itself and its defence of russia. after the security security conference in germany, a few days after that we saw the us and other allies confirm that they would be sending tanks and other equipment to ukraine foran sending tanks and other equipment to ukraine for an expected spring offensive. that came after the uk had already said it would be sending tanks to ukraine. do stay with us because we are going to be bringing you all the developments on this breaking, very significant, very

important story and with me in the studio is our corresspondent robin brant. we arejust studio is our corresspondent robin brant. we are just getting the basics, we had heard we were going to get confirmation of a vip, a significant visitor to ukraine. we have had the confirmation in the last few seconds it is presidentjoe biden, given it is almost exactly a year to the day since the invasion, it is hugely symbolic?— it is hugely symbolic? global olitics, it is hugely symbolic? global politics, international - it is hugely symbolic? global. politics, international diplomacy it is hugely symbolic? global - politics, international diplomacy is about military support, it is about financial support and aid. but it is also about demonstrable symbolism. that is exactly what we have today. president biden is in kyiv for his first visit, which marks the first anniversary of russia's assault, russia's attack and russia's invasion. it is clear what this is,

it is the strongest sign possible from the world's most powerful politician, that the us and its allies remain, president biden would say, committed in their support and in lock step in their support. that applies to the uk, to france, germany and all the others. the first sign we had was when there were issues that the internet in certain parts of ukraine. we knew he was going to poland and now we know he is there. ., , was going to poland and now we know he is there. .,, , he is there. robert, stay with me because i want _ he is there. robert, stay with me because i want to _ he is there. robert, stay with me because i want to go _ he is there. robert, stay with me because i want to go to _ he is there. robert, stay with me because i want to go to kyiv - he is there. robert, stay with me because i want to go to kyiv to i because i want to go to kyiv to speak to james waterhouse. hello to you, what can you tell us? we speak to james waterhouse. hello to you, what can you tell us?— you, what can you tell us? we had a feelin: you, what can you tell us? we had a feeling something _ you, what can you tell us? we had a feeling something was _ you, what can you tell us? we had a feeling something was happening. l you, what can you tell us? we had a i feeling something was happening. the streets _ feeling something was happening. the streets behind me were blocked off, people _ streets behind me were blocked off, people were told to stay away, to close _ people were told to stay away, to close their — people were told to stay away, to close their windows. we waited. eventually, in the distance, could

see the _ eventually, in the distance, could see the outline of presidentjoe biden— see the outline of presidentjoe biden and president zelensky emerging from st michael's cathedral, the golden dome building behind _ cathedral, the golden dome building behind me. it is there where there is a memorial for soldiers who have died in _ is a memorial for soldiers who have died in the — is a memorial for soldiers who have died in the nine years of this war. it effectively serves as a reminder that russian hostilities toward ukraine — that russian hostilities toward ukraine have spanned before the full scale invasion a year ago. but as robin_ scale invasion a year ago. but as robin brant or saying, we are approaching a year since that morning _ approaching a year since that morning on the 24th of february 2022 when russia did what was seen as the unthinkable _ when russia did what was seen as the unthinkable at the time. now this is a reat— unthinkable at the time. now this is a real show— unthinkable at the time. now this is a real show of unity. we have seen plenty— a real show of unity. we have seen plenty of— a real show of unity. we have seen plenty of them in kyiv. we have seen countless _ plenty of them in kyiv. we have seen countless world leaders arrive in the capital to meet president zelensky to discuss future support and everything else, but you have a us president visit a capital city in the midst— us president visit a capital city in the midst of a full—scale conflict, when _ the midst of a full—scale conflict, when there are not any us soldiers

with boots— when there are not any us soldiers with boots on the ground here in ukraine, — with boots on the ground here in ukraine, it — with boots on the ground here in ukraine, it is quite a moment. but you can _ ukraine, it is quite a moment. but you can be — ukraine, it is quite a moment. but you can be sure that president zelensky— you can be sure that president zelensky will use this, as he always does, _ zelensky will use this, as he always does. as— zelensky will use this, as he always does. as an — zelensky will use this, as he always does, as an opportunity to ask for more _ does, as an opportunity to ask for more we — does, as an opportunity to ask for more. we know battle tanks are on the way, _ more. we know battle tanks are on the way, as— more. we know battle tanks are on the way, as well as longer range missiles — the way, as well as longer range missiles in— the way, as well as longer range missiles. in the latest diplomatic developments on the front, president zelensky— developments on the front, president zelensky will think, or developments on the front, president zelensky willthink, orwhile developments on the front, president zelensky will think, or while you are here, — zelensky will think, or while you are here, what else can i pin you down _ are here, what else can i pin you down for~ — are here, what else can i pin you down for~ it— are here, what else can i pin you down for. it is a moment, when the kremlin— down for. it is a moment, when the kremlin has— down for. it is a moment, when the kremlin has said that western support— kremlin has said that western support for ukraine has started to rain _ support for ukraine has started to rain that — support for ukraine has started to rain that is — support for ukraine has started to rain. that is a direct challenge to that idea? — rain. that is a direct challenge to that idea? it rain. that is a direct challenge to that idea? , ~ , ., that idea? it is likely that president _ that idea? it is likely that president zelensky - that idea? it is likely that president zelensky will i that idea? it is likely that l president zelensky will ask that idea? it is likely that - president zelensky will ask for more, what could that wish list include? just actually, we are getting pictures, just before you answer that question, we are getting the first pictures of the motorcade. unclear whether this is... it is not

life, i am unclear whether this is... it is not life, iam being unclear whether this is... it is not life, i am being told so this is ahead of the arrival of the president and the visit, as you are explaining, to saint michael's cathedral. president biden and president zelensky, so a huge security operation, a massive security operation, a massive security operation, a massive security operation and the setting up security operation and the setting up and planning of something like this, logistically, is an enormous task. james, just as we watch these pictures, on question of what might be in president galinsky�*s wish list, he would like president biden to announce more help today while he is there in ukraine? —— president zelensky. is there in ukraine? -- president zelens . ., ., , , zelensky. you are right, president zelensky. you are right, president zelensky has _ zelensky. you are right, president zelensky has been _ zelensky. you are right, president zelensky has been anything - zelensky. you are right, president zelensky has been anything but i zelensky has been anything but subtle — zelensky has been anything but subtle in — zelensky has been anything but subtle in his asking of western allies— subtle in his asking of western allies for— subtle in his asking of western allies for more. the latest on his wish _ allies for more. the latest on his wish list — allies for more. the latest on his wish list are _ allies for more. the latest on his wish list are fighterjets. you can be sure _ wish list are fighterjets. you can be sure that will come up. you are right, _ be sure that will come up. you are right, the — be sure that will come up. you are right, the location where we are is significant — right, the location where we are is significant. 58 michael's cathedral is at the _ significant. 58 michael's cathedral is at the top of the hill which goes

down _ is at the top of the hill which goes down towards, to the right of the screen, _ down towards, to the right of the screen, independent square. it was there _ screen, independent square. it was there there — screen, independent square. it was there there where anti—government protest _ there there where anti—government protest nine years ago now. this is a day— protest nine years ago now. this is a day when — protest nine years ago now. this is a day when ukraine looks to commemorate the deaths of more than 100 protesters who lost their lives in demonstrations which spanned throughout the winter, in freezing temperatures when the last moscow leaning _ temperatures when the last moscow leaning president was effectively toppled. it is those demonstrations which _ toppled. it is those demonstrations which triggered russia's subsequent campaign _ which triggered russia's subsequent campaign of aggression. i think he would _ campaign of aggression. i think he would have predicted in 2014 the country— would have predicted in 2014 the country would be where it is today. messaging, especially in times of war does— messaging, especially in times of war does matter. the site of president _ war does matter. the site of president biden on kyiv's independent square does send out a statement _ independent square does send out a statement to russia and beyond about where _ statement to russia and beyond about where western sentiment is on this war. president zelensky and many in his administration will not be

getting — his administration will not be getting carried away because fighter 'ets getting carried away because fighter jets are _ getting carried away because fighter jets are next on the wish list. even with the _ jets are next on the wish list. even with the diplomatic success kyiv has enjoyed _ with the diplomatic success kyiv has enjoyed so— with the diplomatic success kyiv has enjoyed so far with missile supplies, armoured vehicles, training — supplies, armoured vehicles, training and everything else that has been — training and everything else that has been added, there is a time lag between _ has been added, there is a time lag between promises and delivery on the battlefield. while this is a moment for kyiv— battlefield. while this is a moment for kyiv and ukraine, it is ui

realise _ travel a few hundred miles east to realise just— travel a few hundred miles east to realise just what is at stake. ukraine _ realise just what is at stake. ukraine are still under threat and are still— ukraine are still under threat and are still fighting for its very existence. you can be sure that president — existence. you can be sure that president biden will have been warmly— president biden will have been warmly welcomed behind closed doors and you _ warmly welcomed behind closed doors and you can _ warmly welcomed behind closed doors and you can be sure the future support— and you can be sure the future support will be discussed today. just support will be discussed today. just as— support will be discussed today. just as we — support will be discussed today. just as we were speaking james, we are seeing more information coming through. president zelensky singh he and joe biden have discussed long—range weapons during the us president's visit to kyiv. that has already been discussed. of course, there is a balance to be struck between this huge display of moral support, is probably the best way to describe it, byjoe biden, and the delivery of weapons which may potentially, depending on what those weapons are, pull the us and other

countries further and further into this conflict? it countries further and further into this conflict?— this conflict? it will in a sense. but i this conflict? it will in a sense. but i think— this conflict? it will in a sense. but i think what _ this conflict? it will in a sense. but i think what we _ this conflict? it will in a sense. but i think what we have - this conflict? it will in a sense. i but i think what we have seen, this conflict? it will in a sense. - but i think what we have seen, the us is— but i think what we have seen, the us is the _ but i think what we have seen, the us is the biggest player in terms of western— us is the biggest player in terms of western allies. it has provided a lot of— western allies. it has provided a lot of political cover for other countries _ lot of political cover for other countries like the uk and germany to kinda _ countries like the uk and germany to kinda follow suit. but you are right, — kinda follow suit. but you are right, this _ kinda follow suit. but you are right, this does spanned beyond your moral— right, this does spanned beyond your moral visit~ _ right, this does spanned beyond your moralvisit. it right, this does spanned beyond your moral visit. it is not surprising that— moral visit. it is not surprising that president zelensky hasn't hung around _ that president zelensky hasn't hung around and brought up the issue of longer— around and brought up the issue of longer range missiles. but back in the summerand the longer range missiles. but back in the summer and the autumn of 2022, there _ the summer and the autumn of 2022, there were _ the summer and the autumn of 2022, there were developments on the weapons — there were developments on the weapons side which did alter the war _ weapons side which did alter the war. longer range missiles enabled ukraine _ war. longer range missiles enabled ukraine to — war. longer range missiles enabled ukraine to cut off thousands of russian — ukraine to cut off thousands of russian forces by taking out their supply— russian forces by taking out their supply lines and ammunition depots as well— supply lines and ammunition depots as well as _ supply lines and ammunition depots as well as other significant targets~ _ as well as other significant targets. so we are now seeing ukraine — targets. so we are now seeing ukraine getting even longer range weapons — ukraine getting even longer range weapons in the hope they will be able to— weapons in the hope they will be able to do— weapons in the hope they will be able to do the same. what president

zelensky— able to do the same. what president zelensky sein, missiles alone are not enough. battle tanks, on their own are _ not enough. battle tanks, on their own are not — not enough. battle tanks, on their own are not enough. he says we now need _ own are not enough. he says we now need to— own are not enough. he says we now need to use _ own are not enough. he says we now need to use a _ own are not enough. he says we now need to use a combination approach, where _ need to use a combination approach, where battle tanks are used with missiles, — where battle tanks are used with missiles, artillery and infantry movements come infantry that continues— movements come infantry that continues to receive training from the west — continues to receive training from the west. it is that combination approach — the west. it is that combination approach that kyiv sees as the means of breaking _ approach that kyiv sees as the means of breaking up this deadlock. because _ of breaking up this deadlock. because at the moment, with russia making _ because at the moment, with russia making small but incredibly costly gains, _ making small but incredibly costly gains, a _ making small but incredibly costly gains, a war of attrition does not favour— gains, a war of attrition does not favour the — gains, a war of attrition does not favour the underdog. ukraine gains, a war of attrition does not favourthe underdog. ukraine is still the — favourthe underdog. ukraine is still the underdog. it has surprised 'ust still the underdog. it has surprised just about — still the underdog. it has surprised just about everybody in terms of the defence _ just about everybody in terms of the defence it _ just about everybody in terms of the defence it has put up and the fact we are _ defence it has put up and the fact we are talking 12 months on from a full-scale _ we are talking 12 months on from a full—scale invasion, where president zelensky— full—scale invasion, where president zelensky remains in office. nevertheless, this is a conflict and we have _ nevertheless, this is a conflict and we have all— nevertheless, this is a conflict and we have all seen it, changes month by month, — we have all seen it, changes month by month, depending on which side has the _ by month, depending on which side has the momentum. at the moment is a war of— has the momentum. at the moment is a war of attrition does not suit ukraine~ _ war of attrition does not suit ukraine. it is unable to take heavy

losses. _ ukraine. it is unable to take heavy losses, unlike, at the moment, russia — losses, unlike, at the moment, russia. president zelensky is both trying _ russia. president zelensky is both trying to— russia. president zelensky is both trying to secure more support through— trying to secure more support through more lethal weapons, but also trying to speed up the procurement process. it is a never ending — procurement process. it is a never ending diplomatic treadmill that he is on _ ending diplomatic treadmill that he is on and — ending diplomatic treadmill that he is on. and today is yet another big moment— is on. and today is yet another big moment on— is on. and today is yet another big moment on kyiv's calendar. let�*s moment on kyiv's calendar. let's brint in moment on kyiv's calendar. let's bring in a — moment on kyiv's calendar. let's bring in a few— moment on kyiv's calendar. let's bring in a few more _ moment on kyiv's calendar. let's bring in a few more lines - moment on kyiv's calendar. let's bring in a few more lines for- moment on kyiv's calendar. let�*s bring in a few more lines for your hearing. we have already mentioned that president zelensky says he and joe biden, the us presidentjoe biden have discussed long—range weapons during the visit. president biden has also said that ukraine will get a new military aid package worth $500 million, to be announced on tuesday. we are also hearing that president biden will announce additional sanctions against elite and companies that are trying to evade or backfill russia's war

machine, is the quote we are hearing. and he will announce the delivery of critical equipment, including artillery, ammunition, air surveillance radars to help protect ukrainian people. so lots of lines coming through. along with this presence on the ground, lots of delivery. just bear with me while we bring you this still photograph, the first image we have of president biden in ukraine greeting president zelensky. the flags of the usa and ukraine fluttering behind them. a very, very symbolic image. and just to remind you that this visit byjoe biden, by the us president comes almost exactly a year to the day since russia invaded ukraine. let's

return to a corresspondent james waterhouse in kyiv as we look at the image for a few moments longer. it is one you will be seeing lots of today and in the days ahead. a lot of lines coming out of these discussions so far. for your benefit and for the benefit of the viewers, i will take you through them one more time. president zelensky says he and president biden have discussed long—range weapons will stop the white house says that president biden will announce the delivery of critical equipment, including artillery, ammunition, anti—armour systems, air defence radars to protect the ukrainian people. there will be military aid package and presumably that is part of the detail of this package, worth $500 million to be on tuesday and there will be further sanctions on russian elites and companies, russian elites and companies,

russian companies trying to backfill or get around the sanctions. so your assessment of all of those developing lines, james, if you would? , , developing lines, james, if you would? , ., , would? this is another sizeable military package _ would? this is another sizeable military package from - would? this is another sizeable military package from the - would? this is another sizeable military package from the us i would? this is another sizeable - military package from the us which has spent _ military package from the us which has spent billions in its military support— has spent billions in its military support of ukraine. it seems to be a continuation — support of ukraine. it seems to be a continuation of its sanctions strategy _ continuation of its sanctions strategy where at the moment it seems _ strategy where at the moment it seems like the us is trying to target — seems like the us is trying to target companies working around the existing _ target companies working around the existing limitations being placed on russia's_ existing limitations being placed on russia's economy, as well as businesses in terms of access to international markets. of late, over the past _ international markets. of late, over the past few weeks we have seen sanctions — the past few weeks we have seen sanctions target the technology companies that develop the hardware behind _ companies that develop the hardware behind drones and long—range missiles — behind drones and long—range missiles to try and throttle russia's_ missiles to try and throttle russia's military push in that sense — russia's military push in that sense. because russia is continuing

to launch _ sense. because russia is continuing to launch a — sense. because russia is continuing to launch a large—scale missile and drone _ to launch a large—scale missile and drone attacks across the whole of ukraine — drone attacks across the whole of ukraine. while that will frustrate moscow — ukraine. while that will frustrate moscow in some ways, it is not translating _ moscow in some ways, it is not translating into any kind of reprieve _ translating into any kind of reprieve on the battleground or in terms _ reprieve on the battleground or in terms of— reprieve on the battleground or in terms of how people live their everyday _ terms of how people live their everyday lives. this package announced by president biden seems to be reaching beyond that and applying — to be reaching beyond that and applying a bit more economic pressure~ _ applying a bit more economic pressure. because the view in kyiv is that— pressure. because the view in kyiv is that they— pressure. because the view in kyiv is that they are not going far enough _ is that they are not going far enough. because russia is able to sustain— enough. because russia is able to sustain its— enough. because russia is able to sustain its attack and manufacture more _ sustain its attack and manufacture more ammunition, more weapons as well as— more ammunition, more weapons as well as mobilise hundreds and thousands of men. we are seeing more and more _ thousands of men. we are seeing more and more troops either gather across the border— and more troops either gather across the border in russia or be deployed on the _ the border in russia or be deployed on the battlefield. so that will be welcomed. if you look at that of the list of— welcomed. if you look at that of the list of artillery and ammunition, that will— list of artillery and ammunition, that will be welcome, too. because ukraine _ that will be welcome, too. because ukraine is— that will be welcome, too. because ukraine is using thousands of shells every— ukraine is using thousands of shells every day _ ukraine is using thousands of shells every day. russia is as well, but the stock —

every day. russia is as well, but the stock is _ every day. russia is as well, but the stock is much more limited on the stock is much more limited on the ukrainian side. i talk about being _ the ukrainian side. i talk about being able to kind of sustain the fight, _ being able to kind of sustain the fight, sustain that defence, if you like _ fight, sustain that defence, if you like it— fight, sustain that defence, if you like. it costs a lot. so all of this will be — like. it costs a lot. so all of this will be welcomed. but i will be surprised — will be welcomed. but i will be surprised if president zelensky said thank— surprised if president zelensky said thank you. — surprised if president zelensky said thank you, mr president, any chance you could _ thank you, mr president, any chance you could speed it up and get it to us by— you could speed it up and get it to us by yesterday. because that is what _ us by yesterday. because that is what he — us by yesterday. because that is what he said all along, he has been quite _ what he said all along, he has been quite frustrated even before the full scale — quite frustrated even before the full scale invasion. he said sanctions _ full scale invasion. he said sanctions needed to come before to put russia _ sanctions needed to come before to put russia off from doing what it has done — put russia off from doing what it has done. nevertheless, this will be welcomed — has done. nevertheless, this will be welcomed. the hope will also be that other countries, other western allies— other countries, other western allies will— other countries, other western allies will see this visit, will see this latest— allies will see this visit, will see this latest military package and line up— this latest military package and line up ones of their own to try and help ukraine in its continued fight. james. _ help ukraine in its continued fight. james, stay with us. ijust want to james, stay with us. i just want to bring our viewers' attention to a

tweet from president biden. let's see if we can bring it up on the screen. we haven't got it yet but it says, as we approach the anniversary of russia's brutal invasion of ukraine, i am of russia's brutal invasion of ukraine, iam in kyiv of russia's brutal invasion of ukraine, i am in kyiv today to meet with president zelensky and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to ukraine's democracy, sovereignty and territorial integrity. that is a tweet issued by the white house in just the last few moments. president biden saying, as we approach the anniversary of russia's brutal invasion of ukraine. i am in kyiv today to meet the president zelensky and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to ukraine's democracy, sovereignty and territorial integrity. he goes on... when putin launched his invasion nearly one year ago, launched his invasion nearly one yearago, he launched his invasion nearly one year ago, he thought ukraine was weak and the west divided. he thought he could outlast us, but he

was dead wrong. he goes on... over the last year the united states has built a coalition of nations from the atlantic to the pacific to help defend ukraine with unprecedented military, economic and humanitarian support and that support will endure. so those tweets from president bidenjust endure. so those tweets from president biden just appearing in the last few minutes, as news of his visit to ukraine, to the capital kyiv, emerges. let's go back to james waterhouse in kyiv. for anyone justjoining us james, as we hear this news today and it is obviously symbolic, almost a year to the day since russia invaded ukraine, just talk to us about the symbolism and beyond the symbolism, the practical help that will come from this visit? this is a big moment in one of many in this war. but if we look at the

political significance of this, as well as the symbolism, i don't think it gets any bigger. we have seen countless official visits to kyiv, from notjust before the invasion but throughout this conflict where leaders, western leaders have arrived and promised military help as well as its unwavering support for ukraine, for example. but today it has almost levelled up, in a sense, that we have the most powerful politician in the world, the main player amongst ukraine's western allies make an unannounced visit to kyiv, a capital city, a country which continues to find itself under a full—scale attack. this is an active war. we have the sight of president biden and president zelensky inside saint michael's cathedral, just behind me at a time when siren sounded, a

reminder of the enduring threat of visiting at this time. but for president biden he would have known the associated risks and for him, he wanted to be here. there is some substance to this visit, we have had another $500 million military package announced. significant in the sense it is more ammunition, shells which ukraine, ukrainian troops desperately need. but then you have the symbolism where you have them looking at a memorial commemorating the deaths of soldiers who have died in the nine years of fighting. and that is what is easily forgotten, it is notjust about the full—scale invasion of 2022, russia's campaign of aggression against ukraine spans nine years. it started in 2014. tens of thousands of people have been killed and are continuing to lose their lives. hundreds of soldiers are dying every both sides. they visited the

memorial, they have also been seen close to kyiv's independence square where anti—government protests in 2014 saw the last moscow leaning president toppled from power. it was those events which triggered russia's campaign of aggression. which led to the invasion of last year. you are right, many thought kyiv were thought within days. —— fall within days. moscow planned to walk into the capital, topple president zelensky and likely install a puppet regime. here we are, coming up to a year on from that point when president zelensky remains in power and russia has been forced to change his objective is to occupy more and more territory in the east and south. nevertheless, this is far from the east and south. nevertheless, this is farfrom over and russia is continuing to take territory. it is

incredibly hard fought territory, both sides are sustaining losses and president zelensky, to not take away from the resilience shown by his troops, as well as the ukrainian people, he needs continued western support in the form of training, in the form of ammunition and in the words of president zelensky, he is asking forfighterjets words of president zelensky, he is asking for fighterjets now. words of president zelensky, he is asking forfighterjets now. whether the west will provide that, i think that will be discussed today. but the kremlin has been claiming that western support is starting to wane. this is a direct challenge to that. president biden has said the us' support is long—term. vladimir putin is likely to be waiting for, he might be looking to wait this out and wait for the next white house administration in the upcoming us elections. but for now it will be a reassuring sight for so many ukrainians that wonder... when you speak to people they care about what

countries are providing what and when it will arrive. there are fears this war could turn very much against kyiv's favour. this is a moment, he is in the heart of the capital in the midst of a full—scale conflict. you can be sure president zelensky will use this as an opportunity to pin president biden down for more support. in a war where there have been so many twists and turns, this is one, i imagine it will be one of the most defining political sites we will see in this conflict so far.— conflict so far. james, for the moment _ conflict so far. james, for the moment thank _ conflict so far. james, for the moment thank you _ conflict so far. james, for the moment thank you very - conflict so far. james, for the l moment thank you very much. conflict so far. james, for the - moment thank you very much. james waterhouse, r ukraine corresspondent. let's look at these pictures for a moment. we saw a second ago the two presidents, zelensky and biden posing for film crews and photographers with the flags of the usa and ukraine paired

behind them. rich in symbolism, but as james was behind them. rich in symbolism, but asjames was saying, behind them. rich in symbolism, but as james was saying, there is both symbolism and substance to this visit. the symbolism, obvious because it is almost a year to the day since russia invaded ukraine. so to have the us president, boots on the ground in ukraine is a really strong demonstration of support from one of ukraine's biggest allies. the message that russia is clearly not where it thought it would be at the stage. and then the substance coming with a new military aid package worth $500 million. that is to be announced on tuesday. discussion on long—range weapons, president zelensky has said. also president biden saying he will be introducing new sanctions against what he called russian elites and companies that

were trying to get around the sanctions already in place. so as we look at these images, let's discuss the importance of this visit further and still with me in the studio is robin brant. i am alsojoined by the russia editorfor bbc robin brant. i am alsojoined by the russia editor for bbc monitoring and let's begin with you. how will russia respond to this? this is exactly the _ russia respond to this? this is exactly the sort _ russia respond to this? this is exactly the sort of _ russia respond to this? this is l exactly the sort of development president putin said he was trying to stop from happening when he launched his special military operation almost a year ago. in his speech back then on the 24th of february last year, he said he was trying to stop what he called western expansionism in ukraine. he wanted to stop western nations from supplying weapons to ukraine. now this happens, the leader of the most powerful western nation is in the

ukraine capital in the middle of this war. so when president putin addresses the russian nation tomorrow, it will be interesting to see how this visit is spun. because all this time president putin has been saying i have achieved something in ukraine. russia has grown by, he calls it anneck singh, expanding several more parts. and thatis expanding several more parts. and that is probably the only achievement he can name, because this is definitely going to go down as a slap in his face. i would be really keen to see what provo commentators and russia are saying about the strip? i commentators and russia are saying about the strip?— about the strip? i guess it is difficult to — about the strip? i guess it is difficult to spend _ about the strip? i guess it is difficult to spend something| about the strip? i guess it is i difficult to spend something as big as the president of the united states and all the security feeling comfortable and be in the ukrainian capital? comfortable and be in the ukrainian caital? ~ , , ., ., .,

capital? absolutely, i have had a look at what _ capital? absolutely, i have had a look at what those _ capital? absolutely, i have had a| look at what those commentators capital? absolutely, i have had a i look at what those commentators and russia are saying. of course, this visit is seen as russia —— russia as a in demonstration that it is controlled by america, nothing new there. the fact is president biden is prepared to come to kyiv despite the bombs falling, this will not go down particularly well in moscow. for ukrainians, the fact that they are not alone in facing the world's biggest nation who has attacked ukraine with this huge army, it is hugely significant for ordinary ukrainians as well.— hugely significant for ordinary ukrainians as well. robin brant, let's bring _ ukrainians as well. robin brant, let's bring you — ukrainians as well. robin brant, let's bring you back— ukrainians as well. robin brant, let's bring you back in. - ukrainians as well. robin brant, let's bring you back in. as i ukrainians as well. robin brant, | let's bring you back in. as james was saying, wars of attrition, which this is, don't favour the underdog and russia has vast numbers of people at its disposal, so in terms of the substance of this and what we

are hearing announced or going to be announced in terms of further support, how do you think that might help the ukrainians? i support, how do you think that might help the ukrainians?— help the ukrainians? i think the onttoin help the ukrainians? i think the ongoing financial _ help the ukrainians? i think the ongoing financial support i help the ukrainians? i think the ongoing financial support and i help the ukrainians? i think the i ongoing financial support and the logistical— ongoing financial support and the logistical support from the us is hugely— logistical support from the us is hugely important, asjames alluded to. hugely important, asjames alluded to it _ hugely important, asjames alluded to it gives— hugely important, asjames alluded to. it gives cover, so to speak, for people _ to. it gives cover, so to speak, for people like — to. it gives cover, so to speak, for people like olaf scholz in germany, a manual— people like olaf scholz in germany, a manual macron in france, and that there _ a manual macron in france, and that there is— a manual macron in france, and that there is another audience, another very important meeting going on in another— very important meeting going on in another city today that has huge relevance — another city today that has huge relevance for the future of this conflict — relevance for the future of this conflict. that is china's most senior— conflict. that is china's most senior diplomat travelling to moscow ithink— senior diplomat travelling to moscow i think to _ senior diplomat travelling to moscow i think to meet sir gay lover of or vladimir— i think to meet sir gay lover of or vladimir putin. the phase of china's alliance _ vladimir putin. the phase of china's alliance with china with russia was important — alliance with china with russia was important for vladimir putin and it .ave important for vladimir putin and it gave him — important for vladimir putin and it gave him the final go—ahead to

launch— gave him the final go—ahead to launch that invasion almost a year ago _ launch that invasion almost a year ago that — launch that invasion almost a year ago. that was in the weeksjust following — ago. that was in the weeksjust following on from the winter olympics, vladimir putin went and met president xi jinping and i was there _ met president xi jinping and i was there and — met president xi jinping and i was there and we reported on that. this is a relationship that has no limits nowi _ is a relationship that has no limits now, according to xi jinping. it is usually— now, according to xi jinping. it is usually important in terms of the support. — usually important in terms of the support, both in terms of aid, in terms _ support, both in terms of aid, in terms of— support, both in terms of aid, in terms of ongoing trade. maybe even military— terms of ongoing trade. maybe even military support that has recently been _ military support that has recently been alluded to. i think in powers —— empowers president putin to continues— —— empowers president putin to continues in the military aggression in ukraine — continues in the military aggression in ukraine. china has tried to position— in ukraine. china has tried to position itself as a potential peacemaker in this conflict and that will come _ peacemaker in this conflict and that will come up in a meeting in moscow. some _ will come up in a meeting in moscow. some see _ will come up in a meeting in moscow. some see that as window dressing, but nonetheless there is another audience — but nonetheless there is another audience for the deep symbolism of joe biden's meeting in kyiv today and that— joe biden's meeting in kyiv today and that audience is notjust

moscow. _ and that audience is notjust moscow, but is also in beijing. in your experience, for how long do you think it will suit bashan, will suit china to lend its support to russia if this war continues and russia if this war continues and russia does not make the progress it said it was going to? the russia does not make the progress it said it was going to?— said it was going to? the answer to that is a very _ said it was going to? the answer to that is a very long _ said it was going to? the answer to that is a very long thesis _ said it was going to? the answer to that is a very long thesis are i said it was going to? the answer to that is a very long thesis are very i that is a very long thesis are very short— that is a very long thesis are very short line. — that is a very long thesis are very short line, as long as china's interest— short line, as long as china's interest continue to be served, this has been _ interest continue to be served, this has been a — interest continue to be served, this has been a war that has destabilised much _ has been a war that has destabilised much of— has been a war that has destabilised much of europe, of course, and this, people _ much of europe, of course, and this, people have — much of europe, of course, and this, people have felt that down to the amount— people have felt that down to the amount of money they are paying for the bills— amount of money they are paying for the bills to _ amount of money they are paying for the bills to heat their central heating _ the bills to heat their central heating in this country. at the same time, _ heating in this country. at the same time. it— heating in this country. at the same time. it has— heating in this country. at the same time, it has brought nato and other western— time, it has brought nato and other western allies together, and there is now— western allies together, and there is now a _ western allies together, and there is now a cohesiveness and a strength from the _ is now a cohesiveness and a strength from the us— is now a cohesiveness and a strength from the us down amongst those nations— from the us down amongst those nations that we have not seen for a very long _ nations that we have not seen for a very long time, and that is not

something that beijing will welcome. xi jinping _ something that beijing will welcome. xijinping and something that beijing will welcome. xi jinping and others in china have never— xi jinping and others in china have never come — xi jinping and others in china have never come out and publicly supported what russia is doing, but neither— supported what russia is doing, but neither have they criticised, and they— neither have they criticised, and they have — neither have they criticised, and they have tried to frame themselves in a way— they have tried to frame themselves in a way as— they have tried to frame themselves in a way as potential peace brokers, but at _ in a way as potential peace brokers, but at the _ in a way as potential peace brokers, but at the same time, china wants to have a _ but at the same time, china wants to have a new— but at the same time, china wants to have a new phase in its relationship with russia. — have a new phase in its relationship with russia, because it believes that provides a boardwalk to, any sense. _ that provides a boardwalk to, any sense. a — that provides a boardwalk to, any sense, a rejuvenated nato any further— sense, a rejuvenated nato any further in _ sense, a rejuvenated nato any further in building united states. less _ further in building united states. less return to something we haven't mentioned too much but it's among the announcements coming out of kyiv today. president biden announcing more sanctions on russian elites and also on companies which are trying to get around the existing sanctions. do we have any more detail on that?— sanctions. do we have any more detail on that? , , , ., detail on that? the biggest question is how effective _ detail on that? the biggest question is how effective the _ detail on that? the biggest question is how effective the sanctions i detail on that? the biggest question is how effective the sanctions are i is how effective the sanctions are going to be, because western nations have been imposing various

sanctions, all types of sanctions on russia, as individuals and companies send i'm so sorry to interrupt, i think we are getting some sound, some ability to listen in to what president biden is trying to say, let's listen in.— let's listen in. territorial integrity _ let's listen in. territorial integrity and _ let's listen in. territorial integrity and i _ let's listen in. territorial integrity and i hope i let's listen in. territoriall integrity and i hope today let's listen in. territorial i integrity and i hope today we let's listen in. territorial - integrity and i hope today we will have a chance to discuss how the united states and our allies are keeping constant contact with partners, can most effectively support you in your cause, mr president. i look forward to discussing all this and addressing the world with you afterwards. again, the admiration for the people of ukraine, ordinary hard—working citizens who were never trained to be military, it is beyond heroic, and the whole world think so. thank

ou ve and the whole world think so. thank you very much- _ and the whole world think so. thank you very much. 0k, _ and the whole world think so. thank you very much. ok, so _ and the whole world think so. thank you very much. ok, so we _ and the whole world think so. thank you very much. ok, so we heard i you very much. ok, so we heard president _ you very much. ok, so we heard president biden _ you very much. ok, so we heard president biden there _ you very much. ok, so we heard president biden there say i you very much. ok, so we heard president biden there say that i you very much. ok, so we heard i president biden there say that the efforts of president zelensky and ukrainian forces, the people of ukraine beyond heroic. really interesting to listen to his use of language, talking about the us and allies keeping in constant contact with one another to see how they can most effectively support ukraine and he said we will address the world together shortly, so i think we might be hearing that right now, in fact. thank you. em , emu», thank you. mr president, fellow ladies and _ thank you. mr president, fellow ladies and gentlemen, - thank you. mr president, fellow. ladies and gentlemen, journalists and everyone in this room, the theme

of president _ and everyone in this room, the theme of president biden, i am very happy to welcome — of president biden, i am very happy to welcome you in ukraine, it is a great _ to welcome you in ukraine, it is a great honour— to welcome you in ukraine, it is a great honour for me and all of us, we have _ great honour for me and all of us, we have just — great honour for me and all of us, we have just had negotiations with the president of the united states and then— the president of the united states and then we had a wide discussion about— and then we had a wide discussion about the — and then we had a wide discussion about the involvement of our teams, this conversation brings us closer to the _ this conversation brings us closer to the vic— this conversation brings us closer to the vic today and we hope that these _ to the vic today and we hope that these here, the —— this year, it will— these here, the —— this year, it will be — these here, the —— this year, it will be a — these here, the —— this year, it will be a year of defeating the unprovoked war of russia against ukraine. — unprovoked war of russia against ukraine, and the whole democratic world _ ukraine, and the whole democratic world has— ukraine, and the whole democratic world has to end it with liberating the whole — world has to end it with liberating the whole of ukraine's territory from _ the whole of ukraine's territory from russian occupation and the guarantee — from russian occupation and the guarantee of long—term security for our country. — guarantee of long—term security for our country, as well as europe and the whole — our country, as well as europe and the whole world. right now in ukraine. _ the whole world. right now in ukraine, the destiny of the international order, based on

international order, based on international order, based on international order is decided, and together— international order is decided, and together with the president and our allies— together with the president and our allies and _ together with the president and our allies and partners half to continue doing _ allies and partners half to continue doing everything possible so that the democratic world would win in this historic fight. remember the tension. — this historic fight. remember the tension, we know the attitude of president — tension, we know the attitude of president biden tours every ukrainian, we remain in constant medication — ukrainian, we remain in constant medication with the president of the ei-ht medication with the president of the eight estates over the course of this large—scale war, this is the first— this large—scale war, this is the first visit— this large—scale war, this is the first visit and this is the really most — first visit and this is the really most important visit for the whole history— most important visit for the whole history of— most important visit for the whole history of ukraine — us relationship, the visit of this most difficult _ relationship, the visit of this most difficult period for ukraine when ukraine — difficult period for ukraine when ukraine is— difficult period for ukraine when ukraine is fighting for liberty, the liberties — ukraine is fighting for liberty, the liberties of the world, and this

underlines the results that we have already _ underlines the results that we have already achieved, and what sort of historic— already achieved, and what sort of historic achievements we might gain altogether with the whole world, with the — altogether with the whole world, with the united states, with europe, and today— with the united states, with europe, and today are negotiations where very fruitful. they were very important and crucial, and as has become — important and crucial, and as has become traditional in the relationship between our countries, i relationship between our countries, i would _ relationship between our countries, i would like — relationship between our countries, i would like to extend words of gratitude — i would like to extend words of gratitude personally to mr president biden and to his team, the congress, to all— biden and to his team, the congress, to all the _ biden and to his team, the congress, to all the us — biden and to his team, the congress, to all the us people, and i thank you for— to all the us people, and i thank you for this level of ukraine us corporation and this week will be marking — corporation and this week will be marking one year of our fight against — marking one year of our fight against russia's aggression, so it is very— against russia's aggression, so it is very symbolic that we solidify our resilience through two meetings with the _ our resilience through two meetings with the president of ukraine, my visit in _ with the president of ukraine, my visit in december and the visit of

mr president of the united states to kyiv today. the results of this visit _ kyiv today. the results of this visit will — kyiv today. the results of this visit will surely be seen, and will surely— visit will surely be seen, and will surely have — visit will surely be seen, and will surely have a reflection on the battlefield in liberating our territories, the decision of the united — territories, the decision of the united states on tanks for ukraine has already presented a foundation for establishing a tank coalition, and it's— for establishing a tank coalition, and it's of— for establishing a tank coalition, and it's of historic importance in many— and it's of historic importance in many other— and it's of historic importance in many other aspects, more specifically in air defence, the defence — specifically in air defence, the defence of our cities, and this is a fundamental reinforcement of our capacities — fundamental reinforcement of our capacities. we have also talked about _ capacities. we have also talked about long—range weapons and the weapons _ about long—range weapons and the weapons that may still be supplied to ukraine, even though it was not supplied _ to ukraine, even though it was not supplied before. i know, mr president, that there will be very significant package of support to ukraine. — significant package of support to ukraine, and currently it will serve

as the _ ukraine, and currently it will serve as the clearest signal russia's attempts would have no chance and that we _ attempts would have no chance and that we will together defend our cities _ that we will together defend our cities and citizens from russia, we will have _ cities and citizens from russia, we will have more impetus towards our victory _ will have more impetus towards our victory and — will have more impetus towards our victory and today we have yet again underlined — victory and today we have yet again underlined that we have a common vision _ underlined that we have a common vision with— underlined that we have a common vision with regards to the perspectives of this war, we have coordinated the follow—on pressure on the _ coordinated the follow—on pressure on the terrorist state, we are working — on the terrorist state, we are working hard on the reinforcement of sanctions _ working hard on the reinforcement of sanctions both bilaterally and in the form — sanctions both bilaterally and in the form of g7, which is very important _ the form of g7, which is very important. we have a common vision on the _ important. we have a common vision on the content of many aspects of this formula, because it is security elements— this formula, because it is security elements as well as the tasks to restore — elements as well as the tasks to restore the un charter to its full capacity— restore the un charter to its full capacity and to defend the international role based order. that

is a commonjoint international role based order. that is a common joint task for all the countries — is a common joint task for all the countries that are interested in the international security. the rebuilding and the recovery of justice — rebuilding and the recovery of justice is— rebuilding and the recovery of justice is also very important for all those — justice is also very important for all those who were affected by the russian _ all those who were affected by the russian terror, the russian war, and the aggressor has to take responsibility for the aggression and to— responsibility for the aggression and to reimburse all the damages, thank— and to reimburse all the damages, thank you — and to reimburse all the damages, thank you to the present of the united — thank you to the present of the united states for supporting our work— united states for supporting our work and — united states for supporting our work and restoring the justice, more specifically. — work and restoring the justice, more specifically, in the work of all of our institutions in that area, and we believe — our institutions in that area, and we believe there is no alternatives to the _ we believe there is no alternatives to the establishment, to have the special— to the establishment, to have the special tribunal, the position of ukraine. — special tribunal, the position of ukraine, and we shall support this position — ukraine, and we shall support this position i— ukraine, and we shall support this position. i would ukraine, and we shall support this position. iwould really like ukraine, and we shall support this position. i would really like the united — position. i would really like the united states to be engaged in the implementation of our peace formula, because _ implementation of our peace formula, because its— implementation of our peace formula, because its implementation would mean _ because its implementation would mean a _ because its implementation would

mean a reinforcement of global stability. — mean a reinforcement of global stability, and the predictability of international relations, and we have some _ international relations, and we have some achievements in this area. already— some achievements in this area. already this week in new york together— already this week in new york together with the united states of america. — together with the united states of america, and over 16 other countries will be _ america, and over 16 other countries will be submitting for the consideration of the un general assembly for the draft resolution on supporting peace in ukraine, on the eve of— supporting peace in ukraine, on the eve of the _ supporting peace in ukraine, on the eve of the 24th of february we believe — eve of the 24th of february we believe the approval of the resolution will be very significant evidence — resolution will be very significant evidence to the fact that the terrorist _ evidence to the fact that the terrorist state would never break a civilised _ terrorist state would never break a civilised country and we are also opening — civilised country and we are also opening a — civilised country and we are also opening a special table dedicated to president _ opening a special table dedicated to president biden, the first call on the night — president biden, the first call on the night of the 24th of february two since — the night of the 24th of february two since we had that time, we've had conversations that have given

very significant attention to the protection of ukraine's democracy. there _ protection of ukraine's democracy. there is— protection of ukraine's democracy. there is the — protection of ukraine's democracy. there is the personal contribution of president biden in solidifying the liberty and democracy of the world. _ the liberty and democracy of the world, this will be remembered eternally— world, this will be remembered eternally and ukraine is grateful to you, eternally and ukraine is grateful to you. mr— eternally and ukraine is grateful to you, mr president, and to alter us citizens. _ you, mr president, and to alter us citizens. to — you, mr president, and to alter us citizens, to all those who cherish freedom — citizens, to all those who cherish freedom just as cherish it. glory to our warriors. — freedom just as cherish it. glory to ourwarriors, go freedom just as cherish it. glory to our warriors, go date to our allies and glory— our warriors, go date to our allies and glory to — our warriors, go date to our allies and glory to ukraine. and to the united _ and glory to ukraine. and to the united states of america.- and glory to ukraine. and to the united states of america. thank you very much. — united states of america. thank you very much. mr _ united states of america. thank you very much, mr president. _ united states of america. thank you very much, mr president. it - united states of america. thank you very much, mr president. it was i united states of america. thank you very much, mr president. it was one year ago this week we spoke on the telephone, mr president. it was very late at night in washington, very early in the morning here in kyiv. russian planes were in the air and tanks were rolling across your border. you told me that you could

hear explosions in the background. i'll never forget that. and the world was about to change. i remember vividly, as i asked you, i asked you next, i asked you what is there, mr president, what can i do for you? there, mr president, what can i do foryou? how there, mr president, what can i do for you? how can i be of help? and i don't know if you remember what you said to me, but you said, and i quote "gather the leaders of the world, ask them to support ukraine. gather the leaders of the world and ask them to support ukraine." and you said that you didn't know when we will be able to speak again. that dark night, one year ago, the world was literally at the time bracing for the fall of kyiv. it seems like a lot longer ago than a year, but

think back that year. perhaps even the end of ukraine. you know, one year later kyiv stands and ukraine stands and democracy stands. america stands and democracy stands. america stands with you and the world stands with you. kyiv has captured a part of my heart, i must say. i have come here six times as vice president, once as president, and in 2009 as vice president when i first came here, then back in 2014 i came three times in the aftermath of the revolution of dignity, and i again came in 2015 to address about the work of building a strong democracy. and i came in 2017just before i

left office as vice president, i knew i would be back but i wanted to be sure, even though the elections were over, barack obama and i were out of office, i decided to make one more trip before the next president was sworn in, to kyiv. so, president zelensky, you deeply honour me here in kyiv with you today. to meet with your military, your intelligence folks, your diplomatic teams, community leaders who have stepped up community leaders who have stepped up to help their country in their hour of need. it is astounding who stood up, everybody. everybody. women, young children, trying to do something, just trying to do something. pulling people out of apartments that were being shelled,

or crimes. it is astounding. —— war crimes. the whole world sees it. and looks at it. this is the largest land war in europe and three quarters of a century. and you are succeeding against all and every expectation except your own. we have every confidence you are going to continue to prevail. you know, from the moment i first received an intelligence report in the fall about a year ago, we were focused on determining how do we rally the western world? how do i help you with the promise you ask me to make to rally the world? well, how do you

succeed? how do you get a world to respond? to a prosperous economy, conference democracy, secure an independent state, when united americans of all political backgrounds decided they would step up. american people know it matters, unchecked aggression, a threat to all of us. we build a coalition of nations from the atlantic to the pacific, nato and the atlantic, japan and the pacific, across the world, a number of nations, over 50, who helped ukraine defend itself with unprecedented military, humanitarian support. we united the leading economies of the world under

unprecedented cost of squeezing russia's economic lifelines. together we have committed nearly 700 tanks and thousands of armoured vehicles. 1000 artillery systems. more than 2 million rounds of artillery ammunition. more than 50 advanced launch rocket systems. and air defence systems. all sent to defend ukraine, and that does not count the other half $1 billion we are announcing with you today and tomorrow, that is going to be coming your way. and that is just the united states in this piece. just today, that announcement includes artillery ammunition for high margin howitzers, more javelins, anti—armour systems, air surveillance radars that will help prevent caring people from aerial bombardments. later this week we

will announce additional sanctions against elites and companies that are trying to evade sanctions and backfill russia's war machine. and thanks to bipartisan support in congress, this week we are delivering billions in direct budgetary support, billions in direct budgetary support. which the government can put to use immediately and help provide for basic services of citizens. the cost that ukraine has had to bear has been extraordinarily high, and the sacrifices have been far too great, far too great. we mourn alongside the families of those who have been lost in the brutal and unjust war, and we know there will be very difficult days and weeks and years ahead, but russia cut aim was to wipe ukraine off the map. vladimir

putin's war conquest is failing. russia's military has lost half its territory once occupied. young talented russians are fleeing by the tens of thousands, not wanting to come back to russia. notjust fleeing from the military, fleeing from russia itself. because they see no future in their country. russia's economy is now backwater, isolated and struggling. vladimir putin thought ukraine was weak and the west was divided. as you know, mr president, i said to you in the beginning, he is counting on is not sticking together. he was counting on an ability to keep nato united, counting on is to not be able to bring in others on the site of ukraine. he thought he could outlast

us. i don't think he is thinking that right now. god knows what he's thinking now, i don't think she is thinking now, i don't think she is thinking that. she hasjust thinking now, i don't think she is thinking that. she has just plain wrong. plain wrong. and one year later, the evidence is right here in this room. we stand here together, mr president, i am delighted to be able to repay your visit to our country. in washington not long ago he told the congress, "we have no fear nor should anyone in the world have it." you and all ukrainians, mr president, remained the world every single day what the meaning of the word carriages. all sectors of your economy, all walks of life, it is

astounding —— what the word courage is. you remind us of freedom, that it is priceless, worth fighting for for as long as it takes, and that is how long we are going to be with you, mr president, for as long as it takes. applause "as "as long as it takes". president biden's final words of that joint news conference with president zelensky of ukraine. that visit, almost a year to the days since russia invaded ukraine, hugely symbolic, watching that news conference with me is our correspondent robin brant and take us through what you heard. fits correspondent robin brant and take us through what you heard.- us through what you heard. as long as it takes is _ us through what you heard. as long as it takes is an _ us through what you heard. as long as it takes is an echo _ us through what you heard. as long as it takes is an echo of _ us through what you heard. as long as it takes is an echo of the - as it takes is an echo of the mantra, almost precisely the words we heard from jeremy�*s later all of

schultz and emmanuel macron commonly present in france, in recent weeks, thatis present in france, in recent weeks, that is probably the most important take from this visit, president biden notjust addressing his ukrainian counterpart also addressing the people of ukraine, dressing vladimir putin in moscow and the american people as well. domestic political sport this is crucial and he was resolute, we stand by ukraine for as long as it takes. president biden spoke for a little longer there, he was second... firstly we heard from volodymyr zelensky in ukrainian, he talked about howjoe biden first came to ukraine 15 years ago, has been seven times since, so not a stranger to that country, but the first timejoe biden has been as president. zelensky said the negotiations between the two men had been very fruitful, he talks about how visits over the years had helped to solidify resilience in terms of

ukraine's position, standing, its confidence now. interestingly as well, he talks about how the pledge of abrams tanks by the united states, discussions we are hearing about possible help the long—term missiles as a great boost to morale on the field for ukrainian troops, so it's notjust about the hardware they are getting, this about the message it sends and it's about the confidence they can have. ibtnd message it sends and it's about the confidence they can have.— confidence they can have. and also resident confidence they can have. and also president zelensky _ confidence they can have. and also president zelensky talking - confidence they can have. and also president zelensky talking about i confidence they can have. and also. president zelensky talking about the defence of the international rules —based order. he has always repeated this, in everything he said, not just about defending ukraine, but defending yourself as well. friend this is not about _ defending yourself as well. friend this is not about a _ defending yourself as well. friend this is not about a war— defending yourself as well. friend this is not about a war between i this is not about a war between russia and ukraine, is not even about a war in continental europe, and it's what we heard from kamala harris in recent days, ukraine, some in the us and others elsewhere see this as a threat to global stability

and russia are's aggressive acts, they believe, are a threat to the whole global order, certainly as those in paris, london, berlin and washington state. let's quickly recount what we heard from president biden in his comments, he recounted the night of the invasion and how an exhortation came down the phone from president zelensky —— an exhortation —— to gather the leaders of the world, that has been his role, almost rally in chief and he went on to talk about his success, frankly, and others around him, of rallying the world around us because of defending ukraine and defending the values they believe are under threat. he went on to talk about how a year on, almost a year on from the beginning of this invasion gf stands, democracy stands, and he repeated the belief that the us administration now has that russia

has committed war crimes during this invasion, and in terms of confidence and ukraine's ability to frankly when the war, president biden said he believes ukraine is succeeding, and quote, he is confident they will prevail. interestingly, towards the end, comments not directed precisely at vladimir putin, but message very strongly to vladimir putin is that joe biden believes that vladimir putin thought she could outlast the world and the will of the west and he went on to say god knows what president putin is thinking now. thank you very much. let's get some reaction now from a defence and security expert at the university of bath and former nato analyst. good to have you with us, we have spoken many times about this conflict. what are your thoughts on the significance of this visit at

this time by president biden to ukraine? .., ., this time by president biden to ukraine? ,., ., ., 4. this time by president biden to ukraine? ., ,, ., ukraine? good morning. i think a coule of ukraine? good morning. i think a couple of things. _ ukraine? good morning. i think a couple of things. obviously i ukraine? good morning. i think a| couple of things. obviously highly symbolic, we get that, there is another at least half a billion package of arms coming ukraine's way from the us now as a result of the visit, and as you mention, there will be sanctions targeting russian elite by the end of the week to coincide with the first year anniversary. in terms of the timing, they probably did not want to send they probably did not want to send the president and on the anniversary because there will be increased risk of russian bombardment that day. it would have been planned for a good while, these visits take a lot of security planning, of course, and probably was discussed and mooted even before when zelensky visited the us back in december, so the planning that will take a fair bit of time there. in terms of what is actually, the main takeaway here is

robin set is this commitment across the nato allies that we are in this for the long run. what is actually going on there? they are signalling to vladimir putin that basically we are in this and we are not going to back down and therefore you are going to have to do question your fundamental assumptions about trying to last is out in this war. i think, really, if you take into the midbass about what is going on, why is this coming up now? there is another season of fighting to happen over the summer but it looks increasingly likely, including the way zelensky mentioned a peace plan to be lodged with the un, that there are going to be efforts to craft some sort of focus around which discussions may be able to happen. zelensky mentioned not only the war crimes and justice for them but also reparations. reparations would be highly punitive for russia, but that could be something that could potentially be bargained away in return for another concession from russia. i think really the world leaders are looking ahead already

towards the autumn, about how does this actually end? certainly we see people like the us, the head of the military, general mark melly, saying this will have to end in a negotiated settlement. still a lot of fighting to happen, but i think the tone is starting to shift. thank ou ve the tone is starting to shift. thank you very much _ the tone is starting to shift. thank you very much for _ the tone is starting to shift. thank you very much for your— the tone is starting to shift. thank you very much for your thoughts i the tone is starting to shift. thankl you very much for your thoughts on this breaking story today. so, just in the last error, we have seen that presidentjoe biden, the us president, has arrived in ukraine, in the capital kyiv. exactly a year to the week that russia invaded ukraine. he said in thatjoint news conference with president zelensky that the us and ukraine's allies were with them for as long as it takes. so, hugely symbolic, this visit. the timing of this visit. but also a huge deal of substance, as well, with news of new sanctions and

also a half billion dollar aid package. there stay with us on bbc news for further coverage of this visit, we can nowjoin my colleague peter ——. this is bbc news — welcome if you're watching here in the uk or around the globe. our top stories... us presidentjo biden is in kyiv ahead of the first anniversary of russia's full scale invasion of the country. he says the us stands by ukraine. you know, one year later, kyiv stands and ukraine stands. democracy stands. the americans stand with you and the world stands with you. volodymyr zelensky has welcomed the visit, calling it an extremely important sign of support for all ukrainians. we have to do to solve the work, to

have success in this world, to make ukraine stronger. hello, thanks for joining hello, thanks forjoining us. president biden is in ukraine on a surprise visit to kyiv, nearly one year on from the russian invasion. these are the latest pictures that we are getting beamed in from that visit. with kyiv saying they welcome the us's unwavering and unflagging commitment to ukraine's democracy, sovereignty and territorial integrity. we have just sovereignty and territorial integrity. we havejust seen sovereignty and territorial integrity. we have just seen a sovereignty and territorial integrity. we havejust seen a press conference live with president biden

and mr zelensky, and of course both sides committing to firm support. it is very symbolic but of course we have also had an announcement of a $500 million pledge of ongoing support. there will be more tanks, ammunition and of course, president zelensky pushing for fighterjets. we are coming up to the one—year anniversary so we are seeing a lot of diplomatic activity, shows of support from the west, from european nations, but we also know today that there is a meeting between russia and china as this anniversary comes up and china as this anniversary comes up later this year. president biden had this to say at a joint news conference with president zelensky in the last few minutes in kyiv.

so, president zelensky, you deeply honour me here in kyiv with you today. to meet with your military, your intelligence folks, your diplomatic teams, community leaders who have stepped up to help their country in their hour of need. it is astounding who stood up, everybody. everybody. women, young children, trying to do something, just trying to do something. pulling people out of apartments that were being shelled, and literally war crimes. it is astounding. the whole world sees it. and looks at it. this is the largest land war in europe in three quarters of a century. and you are succeeding against all and every expectation except your own. we have every confidence that you are going to continue to prevail. you know, from the moment i first received an intelligence report

in the fall about a year ago, we were focused on determining, how do we rally the rest of the world? how do i help you with the promise you asked me to make to rally the world? well, how do you succeed? how do you get a world to respond? to a prosperous economy, a confident democracy, a secure and independent state, when united americans of all political backgrounds decided they would step up. american people know it matters. unchecked aggression is a threat to all of us. we built a coalition of nations

from the atlantic to the pacific, nato in the atlantic, japan in the pacific, across the world — a number of nations of over 50, who helped ukraine defend itself with unprecedented military, humanitarian support. we united the leading economies of the world under unprecedented cost of squeezing russia's economic lifelines. together we have committed nearly 700 tanks, and thousands of armoured vehicles. 1,000 artillery systems. more than 2 million rounds of artillery ammunition. more than 50 advanced launch rocket systems. and air defence systems. all sent to defend ukraine, and that does not count the other half

a billion dollars we are announcing with you today and tomorrow, that is going to be coming your way. and that's just the united states in this piece. and just today, that announcement includes artillery ammunition for himars and howitzers, more javelins, anti—armour systems, air surveillance radars that will help protect people from aerial bombardments. later this week we will announce additional sanctions against elites and companies that are trying to evade sanctions and backfill russia's war machine. and thanks to bipartisan support in congress, this week we are delivering billions in direct budgetary support, billions in direct budgetary support. which the government can put to use immediately and help provide for basic services of citizens. the cost that ukraine has had to bear has been extraordinarily high, and the sacrifices have been far too great, far too great.

we mourn alongside the families of those who have been lost in the brutal and unjust war. we know there will be very difficult days and weeks and years ahead, but russia's aim was to wipe ukraine off the map. putin's war conquest is failing. russia's military has lost half its territory it once occupied. young talented russians are fleeing by the tens of thousands, not wanting to come back to russia. presidentjoe biden and the press statement we saw from both leaders. these are pictures sent in from kyiv of the two leaders, joe biden and president zelensky in kyiv. this is the first time the us president has been on ukrainian territory since

the russian invasion. it is a huge sign, a huge show of symbolic strength and continue support from the united states, both of course reflective of the political, the financial and the military support that the us and european allies are giving to kyiv. but of course we know that resident zelensky still calling for more military support in concrete terms, specifically on his visit to european nations in the last couple of weeks or so asking for more fighterjets. let's hear a little bit of what president zelensky said. today we host president biden, and we are _ today we host president biden, and we are proud of it. thank you for coming _ we are proud of it. thank you for coming in — we are proud of it. thank you for coming in a _

we are proud of it. thank you for coming in a huge moment of supporting ukraine. what can i say? i supporting ukraine. what can i say? i really— supporting ukraine. what can i say? i really appreciate president biden and american society being from the very beginning of this tragedy, from the very— very beginning of this tragedy, from the very beginning of this full—scale war together with us. the first support was from the white house _ first support was from the white house to— first support was from the white house to ukraine. and thank you for your leadership, thanks bipartisan support. _ your leadership, thanks bipartisan support, thanks congress. i think that is— support, thanks congress. i think that is a — support, thanks congress. i think that is a historical moment for our country. _ that is a historical moment for our country. and — that is a historical moment for our country, and very important today we will speak— country, and very important today we will speak detailing the situation on the _ will speak detailing the situation on the battlefield. but we will also speak— on the battlefield. but we will also speak about people of ukrainians, about— speak about people of ukrainians, about americans. i think that is huge _ about americans. i think that is huge and — about americans. i think that is huge and so difficult to hear four

societies — huge and so difficult to hear four societies. and what we have to do to stop the _ societies. and what we have to do to stop the war. — societies. and what we have to do to stop the war, to have success in this war. — stop the war, to have success in this war. to— stop the war, to have success in this war, to make ukraine more stronger— this war, to make ukraine more stronger and how to win this year. you are _ stronger and how to win this year. you are very— stronger and how to win this year. you are very welcome, mr president. thank— you are very welcome, mr president. thank you _ you are very welcome, mr president. thank you so— you are very welcome, mr president. thank you so much.— you are very welcome, mr president. thank you so much. resident zelensky welcomin: thank you so much. resident zelensky welcoming of — thank you so much. resident zelensky welcoming of course _ thank you so much. resident zelensky welcoming of course joe _ thank you so much. resident zelensky welcoming of course joe biden - thank you so much. resident zelensky welcoming of course joe biden to i thank you so much. resident zelensky welcoming of course joe biden to the . welcoming of coursejoe biden to the ukrainian capital. the bbc�*s james waterhouse told us about the importance of the visit and what ukraine wants from the next. fighterjets are next on the wish list. while this is a moment for kyiv and ukraine, it is ukrainian forces continuing to concede territory. the effort needed to sustain this defence along the last

front line is expensive injust about every sense. both sides are suffering hundreds of casualties per day. ukraine is using more ammunition than the west... quicker than the west can make it. so there is a separation. there often is really between the politics and the fighting. and you only have to travel a few hundred miles east to realise just what is at stake here. ukraine continues to be under threat. it is still fighting for its very existence, so you can be sure president biden would have been warmly welcomed behind the closed doors and you can be sure future support will be discussed today. james waterhouse in kyiv. with me is rush editor at bbc monitoring, just first of all was there any inkling of this biden visit? and what will it mean to people there? i

of this biden visit? and what will it mean to people there? i certainly didn't know — it mean to people there? i certainly didn't know that _ it mean to people there? i certainly didn't know that biden _ it mean to people there? i certainly didn't know that biden was - it mean to people there? i certainly didn't know that biden was coming | it mean to people there? i certainly i didn't know that biden was coming to kyiv, and his trip to the ukrainian capital is exactly the sort of development that president putin of russia wanted to stop when he announced his special military preparation almost exactly a year ago. he said he wanted to put an end to what he presented as western expansion. he said he wanted to stop western nations providing military support to ukraine. and now in a very significant, symbolic move, president biden is in the ukrainian capital as air raid sirens go off and he is promising more military aid to ukraine, so that means that president putin hasn't really achieved his declared objectives. edit achieved his declared objectives. of course we heard joe biden saying us support will be there for "as long as it takes" but given the incremental increase in support from the us and the west, we are still

some way off potentially and the casualties continue to build every day. soldiers die, we see civilians lose their lives. the on the ground suffering, perhaps easy for us to sit outside the country and take it for granted but it is visceral and real. . ., , for granted but it is visceral and real. , . , ., for granted but it is visceral and real. , . , . . , real. yes, any delay that the west is takint real. yes, any delay that the west is taking and _ real. yes, any delay that the west is taking and delivering _ real. yes, any delay that the west is taking and delivering those i is taking and delivering those lethal weapons to ukraine, ukraine says it costs real lives. and one thing that was missing from the press statements we have just heard made by both presidents is it is the f-16 made by both presidents is it is the f—16 fighter made by both presidents is it is the f—16fighterjets. compared to president zelensky�*s visit to london earlier this year where he mentioned warplanes repeatedly, what he said in kyiv is different and that might suggest a certain change of focus.

but in very practical terms, this is what ukraine wants to get after getting main battle tanks, after getting main battle tanks, after getting missiles, now ukraine says we want warplanes, especially in anticipation of some kind of offensive that is believed to be being prepared by russia. just briefl , being prepared by russia. just briefly. how — being prepared by russia. just briefly, how dangerous is it forjoe biden to be in kyiv at the moment. we know an air raid siren went off, and any president travels with enormous security. {lin and any president travels with enormous security.— and any president travels with enormous security. on the one hand ukraine is at — enormous security. on the one hand ukraine is at war _ enormous security. on the one hand ukraine is at war and _ enormous security. on the one hand ukraine is at war and citizens - ukraine is at war and citizens around ukraine are being bombed. on the other hand, would rush risk attacking kyiv when president biden is there is demand that would be highly dangerous. d0 is there is demand that would be highly dangerous.— is there is demand that would be highly dangerous. do stay with us, thank ou highly dangerous. do stay with us, thank you for— highly dangerous. do stay with us, thank you for now. _ highly dangerous. do stay with us, thank you for now. let's _ highly dangerous. do stay with us, thank you for now. let's go to i highly dangerous. do stay with us, | thank you for now. let's go to lyse doucet also in kyiv. we have seen these amazing images of

joe biden meeting president zelensky. how much of a key moment is this nearly a year on?— is this nearly a year on? diplomacy at international _ is this nearly a year on? diplomacy at international level _ is this nearly a year on? diplomacy at international level is _ is this nearly a year on? diplomacy at international level is about i at international level is about symbols as much of substance, and a very strong symbol was sent today. you can see the golden domes of saint michael is cathedral glistening behind us here in kyiv. that's where joe glistening behind us here in kyiv. that's wherejoe biden glistening behind us here in kyiv. that's where joe biden first glistening behind us here in kyiv. that's wherejoe biden first emerged in public today wearing his trademark aviator sunglasses, strolling in the winter's known sunshine with zelensky wearing his trademark military attire. continuing they visited the wall of remembrance to those who have fallen, notjust remembrance to those who have fallen. notjus— remembrance to those who have fallen, notjus fallen, not 'ust what started with the fallen, not just what started with the russian _ fallen, not just what started with the russian annexation - fallen, not just what started with the russian annexation of i fallen, not just what started with l the russian annexation of crimea, russian forces moving into the

donbas, the war goes on, resident bison was here, very show report, critical support in the us, leading the way in unstinting support for ukraine, and those words that he said, today a year on since invasion, kyiv stands, ukraine stands and democracy stands. they want to send this message to washington and other capitals. has joe biden washington and other capitals. has joe biden left kyiv yet and how substantial would talks of being? the key questions will be precisely what more military surprise oh going to be sent. . , what more military surprise oh going to be sent. ., , , ., ., to be sent. that is the question of the hour, it _ to be sent. that is the question of

the hour. it is _ to be sent. that is the question of the hour, it is a _ to be sent. that is the question of the hour, it is a message - to be sent. that is the question of the hour, it is a message that - the hour, it is a message that president zelensky repeats every day incessantly. it is a message he brought himself recently when he addressed a joint houses of congress. we need the support, we need military support, and as you have been discussing, it is notjust a question of the battle tanks, they also want the fighter jets, because all of the reports are that russia is to launch a spring offensive, ukraine is planning its own offensive. it needs the highest calibre, the strongest ever military support to keep this going. this is what president biden pulls my trip is all about. we do know they had time together, just the two of them, no doubt there were some interesting conversations where the cameras were not, and he also made a strong statement at theirjoint not, and he also made a strong statement at their joint press conference. president zelensky said you have come at a very difficult

time for ukrainians and to try to finish the war this year. westerns know that public support for the war whilst still high is dropping and they can't keep up this flow of ammunition and weaponry forever. so there is a sense, and you read it when you read between the lines and the public statements. they want to finish this as soon as possible and as conclusively as possible with the ukrainian victory over russia. that's exactly what i wanted to ask more about because president zelensky talked about wanting this year to be the year of victory but said it has to end i think with all of ukraine he said being secured and guarantees of future security. the question being asked for the last 12 months is what would victory look like? would ukraine accept going back to february last year's boundaries. do they want to go back

much further before any cry territory was taken? do we have any more detail on whether those sorts of discussions were had today? i remember last year at this time, i remember last year at this time, i remember the first weeks of the wall. president zelensky used to use the word compromise saying we can discuss at the negotiating table, we can discuss crimea, we can discuss the donbas, but now after what has happened over the past year, including a catalogue of alleged russian war crimes, the public mood has hardened and president zelensky in a recent book that he published said we don't talk about peace. we used to say piece, now is a victory. they talk about not only taking the territory back that russian —— russia has taken in the last year, they talk about ukraine and it's an

awful lot of territory to take back. and our european allies, we have just had a security conference this week, are they saying they are committed to support ukraine in those demands? figs committed to support ukraine in those demands?— committed to support ukraine in those demands? as always is the auestion those demands? as always is the question not _ those demands? as always is the question notjust _ those demands? as always is the question notjust of _ those demands? as always is the question not just of support - those demands? as always is the question notjust of support but l question notjust of support but being seen to support. part of this war, the narrative of this war, president biden emphasised it again todayis president biden emphasised it again today is president putin thought we would split apart and yet he has been surprised at how we have stuck together. sticking together is an important weapon in this war. they will not allow any cracks, but the reality is in franco statements they are saying, and i quote the europe's foreign policy chief, "our cupboards are dry". they cannot keep up with the amount of ammunition and weaponry needed by ukraine. we heard rishi sunak at the munich security conference, we heard the chancellor saying we have to now go into our

own stocks, the stocks that we need in defending our own countries. we have to go there to try to keep that flow of weapons and ammunition and ever more powerful weapons to help ukraine. there is a kind of murmuring quietly behind the scenes. we have got to find a way to end this war, to end it as quickly as possible, but there is only one way it can end according to the ukrainians and all their allies. it cannot be a partial victory, it cannot be a partial victory, it cannot be a frozen conflict, it has to be a victory for ukraine. fascinating. thank you very much for now. i'mjoined fascinating. thank you very much for now. i'm joined still by vitali. when you hear that, where is the grounds for compromise? where does this conflict end? because we can understand views will have hardened with the loss of life and suffering.

they have, and lyse was correct in saying things will change. when we look at statements made by president zelensky at the start of the war and what he is saying now, there is a huge difference and possibly because we have seen very little movement on the front lines in the last three months or so, ukrainians feel they have the momentum. they have the support from the west and they might have what it takes to start pushing the russians back. so after all the horror of atrocities allegedly committed across ukraine by russian troops, that leaves very little room for compromise and very little demand for compromise within ukraine. so that is one major factor thatis ukraine. so that is one major factor that is stopping president zelensky from saying look, we are ready to talk to president putin. he says there is no trust, we cannot talk to someone like president putin right now. , ., ., ~

someone like president putin right now. , ~ ., ., ., now. understood. we are 'oined now b the now. understood. we are 'oined now by the director * now. understood. we are 'oined now by the director of t now. understood. we are 'oined now by the director of us h now. understood. we are 'oined now by the director of us and h now. understood. we are joined now by the director of us and americans l by the director of us and americans programme at chatham house. just first of all, seeing these images of president biden in kyiv nearly a year on, what does that tell us about the white house of�*s commitment to this cause? i about the white house of's commitment to this cause? i think that president _ commitment to this cause? i think that president biden, _ commitment to this cause? i think that president biden, the - commitment to this cause? i think that president biden, the white i that president biden, the white house really across the united states has been tremendous support. and as we see the rapid approach of that one year mark, this is a president who understands quite how crucial the weeks and months ahead are. he understands that if there is not continued momentum on the side of ukraine, there is the risk that public opinion, public support inside the united states could begin to divide. and the other thing we

saw, and this is crucial, at the munich security conference, ijust travelled back yesterday, and we have all seen the real concern now is that china might enter this war by providing lethal aid support to russia. that would be very significant game changer. the president knows quite how extraordinary not only the unity over the past year has been but he understands that maintaining that european unity with the united states, maintaining domestic support and really sending a very clear signal not only ukraine that the west is on its side but to china to hold back what it seems to be intimating that it might do is really... all of those messages i think have been very clearly and powerfully communicated in this trip that the president has made. and no,

you know, with all the security concerns that one can imagine when the president of the united states takes this kind of trip. find the president of the united states takes this kind of trip.— the president of the united states takes this kind of trip. and when we say non-lethal _ takes this kind of trip. and when we say non-lethal aid, _ takes this kind of trip. and when we say non-lethal aid, we _ takes this kind of trip. and when we say non-lethal aid, we saw - takes this kind of trip. and when we say non-lethal aid, we saw antony i say non—lethal aid, we saw antony blinken warning about that. what would that mean if china was to get involved in that way? it would that mean if china was to get involved in that way?— involved in that way? it would alter the distribution _ involved in that way? it would alter the distribution of— involved in that way? it would alter the distribution of resources - involved in that way? it would alter the distribution of resources in - involved in that way? it would alter the distribution of resources in a i the distribution of resources in a way that will be very unfavourable for ukraine at a time when ukraine needs more ammunition. it needs more air defence, it is calling for fighterjets at a time when russia is willing to throw a lot of bodies at this war. it doesn't have that concern for human life. and having that backing from china would really give it additional force that would be very threatening, and so that is something i think that secretary

blinken has cautioned, warned the chinese against that biden is obviously... we don't want to see. so the weeks ahead are very crucial and this one year mark is a moment that the extraordinary power of seeing the us president make this trip is not only marking one year of just extreme atrocity and desperate times in ukraine but also the need for momentum, the visuals surrounding really designed to say to the world that it's important to think about what lies ahead. of course that raises the very significant question that we all know is coming, which is there isn't a clear endgame. i don't think people feel this is the moment to have that conversation. this is not a conflict that is right for

negotiation, but it's clear those conversations will be had at some point, and that behind the scenes and behind closed doors, there is certainly sure to be a lot of thinking going on along those lines, and there needs to be. joe thinking going on along those lines, and there needs to be.— and there needs to be. joe biden is due to be addressing _ and there needs to be. joe biden is due to be addressing nato - and there needs to be. joe biden is due to be addressing nato in - and there needs to be. joe biden is i due to be addressing nato in warsaw i think tomorrow. having just come from that munich security conference, what do you think is the position now of eu nations who might be worried about breaking into their own weapons supplies? because there is presumably a decision about whether there is an escalated level of support for ukraine though that you try to bring this to an end more quickly versus the risk of triggering a huge, bigger response from russia backed by china. that's always been the very difficult balance, hasn't it?— always been the very difficult balance, hasn't it? there is that division and _ balance, hasn't it? there is that division and there _ balance, hasn't it? there is that division and there is _ balance, hasn't it? there is that division and there is a _ balance, hasn't it? there is that division and there is a simple i division and there is a simple division and there is a simple division that throughout this year we have seen a real concern about

managing escalation. i think that's been done quite well. what you are right, we are seeing a degree of division within europe where some are saying you have got to do more. those who have the ability to support aren't doing enough and need to do it more quickly, and that's a very difficult conversation, a very vocal conversation. but nobody is really saying they don't support ukraine. there is a question of getting the momentum behind that and getting the momentum behind that and getting the momentum behind that and getting the material support behind that and ensuring that it happens quickly enough. but again, there is this broader conversation that at some point it's very difficult conversation, not one that anybody wants to speak about in public sessions at a conference like the munich security conference, although there are private conversations

about planning for what comes next. but right now the focus is very much on sustaining the momentum and trying to build bridges, not only between the united states and europe but across europe where there is some concern about emerging division. . ~ some concern about emerging division. ., ~ , ., some concern about emerging division. ., ~' , ., , some concern about emerging division. ., ~ , ., , . division. 0k. thank you very much indeed, division. 0k. thank you very much indeed. from _ division. 0k. thank you very much indeed, from chatham _ division. 0k. thank you very much indeed, from chatham house, i division. 0k. thank you very much| indeed, from chatham house, very grateful to you for your time today. we are just seeing images that have come into us in the last hour ofjoe biden making this very symbolic and significant visit to kyiv, nearly a year from the significant visit to kyiv, nearly a yearfrom the invasion. and one of our reporters on the ground in kyiv has said they have spoken to people on the streets, one person saying she was really surprised when she crossed the street and caught a glimpse ofjoe biden, saying that todayis glimpse ofjoe biden, saying that today is a very significant day. the day of the heavenly hundred heroes which commemorates more than 100

people killed during the revolution of dignity nine years ago, that's according to one person who happened to see the us president in kyiv on that very surprise visit. nearly a year on from the russian invasion. our breaking news this hour, president biden is in ukraine on a surprise visit to kyiv nearly a year on from the russian invasion. he said the visit will reaffirm his unwavering and unflagging commitment to ukraine's sovereignty and integrity. president biden had this to say in the last few moments. so, president zelensky, you deeply honour me here in kyiv with you today. to meet with your military, your intelligence folks, your diplomatic teams, community leaders who have stepped up to help their country in their hour of need. it is astounding who stood up, everybody. everybody.

women, young children, trying to do something, just trying to do something. pulling people out of apartments that were being shelled, and literally war crimes. it is astounding. the whole world sees it. and looks at it. this is the largest [and war in europe in three quarters of a century. and you are succeeding against all and every expectation except your own. we have every confidence that you are going to continue to prevail. you know, from the moment i first received an intelligence report in the fall about a year ago, we were focused on determining, how do we rally

the rest of the world? how do i help you with the promise you asked me to make to rally the world? well, how do you succeed? how do you get a world to respond? to a prosperous economy, a confident democracy, a secure and independent state, when united americans of all political backgrounds decided they would step up. american people know it matters. unchecked aggression is a threat to all of us. we built a coalition of nations from the atlantic to the pacific, nato in the atlantic, japan in the pacific, across the world — a number of nations of over 50, who helped ukraine defend itself

with unprecedented military, humanitarian support. we united the leading economies of the world under unprecedented cost of squeezing russia's economic lifelines. together we have committed nearly 700 tanks, and thousands of armoured vehicles. 1,000 artillery systems. more than 2 million rounds of artillery ammunition. more than 50 advanced launch rocket systems. and air defence systems. all sent to defend ukraine, and that does not count the other half a billion dollars we are announcing with you today and tomorrow, that is going to be coming your way. and that's just the united states in this piece. and just today, that announcement includes

artillery ammunition for himars and howitzers, more javelins, anti—armour systems, air surveillance radars that will help protect people from aerial bombardments. later this week we will announce additional sanctions against elites and companies that are trying to evade sanctions and backfill russia's war machine. and thanks to bipartisan support in congress, this week we are delivering billions in direct budgetary support, billions in direct budgetary support. which the government can put to use immediately and help provide for basic services of citizens. the cost that ukraine has had to bear has been extraordinarily high, and the sacrifices have been far too great, far too great. we mourn alongside the families of those who have been lost in the brutal and unjust war.

we know there will be very difficult days and weeks and years ahead, but russia's aim was to wipe ukraine off the map. putin's war conquest is failing. russia's military has lost half its territory it once occupied. young talented russians are fleeing by the tens of thousands, not wanting to come back to russia. president biden speaking on his surprise visit to kyiv. president zelensky thanked him for his visit.

world has to end it with liberating the whole of ukraine's territory from russian occupation and the guarantee of long—term security for our country, as well as europe and the whole world. right now in ukraine, the destiny of the international order, based on international order is decided, and together with the president and our— allies and partners half to continue doing everything possible so that the democratic world would win in this historic fight. ukrainians remember the attention, we know the attitude of president biden tours every ukrainian, we remain in constant communication with the president of the eight estates over the course of this large—scale war, this is the first visit and this is the really most important visit for the whole history of ukraine—us relationship,

the visit of this most difficult period for ukraine when ukraine is fighting for liberty, the _ liberties of the world, and this underlines the results that we have already achieved, and what sort of historic achievements we might gain altogether with the whole world, with the united states, with europe, and today our negotiations were very fruitful. they were very important and crucial, and as has become traditional in the relationship between our countries, i would like to extend words of gratitude personally to mr president biden and to his team, the congress, to all the us people, and i thank you for this level of ukraine—us corporation and this week will be

marking one year of our fight against russia's aggression, so it is very symbolic that we solidify our resilience through two meetings with the president of ukraine, my visit in december and the visit of mr president of the united states to kyiv today. the results of this visit will surely be seen, and will surely have a reflection on the battlefield in liberating our territories, the decision of the united states on tanks for ukraine has already presented a foundation for establishing a tank coalition, and it's of historic importance in many other aspects, more specifically in air defence, the defence of our cities, and this is a fundamental reinforcement of our capacities. we have also talked about long—range weapons and the weapons that may still be supplied to ukraine, even though it was not supplied before.

i know, mr president, that there will be very significant package of support to ukraine, and currently it will serve as the clearest signal russia'e— attempts would have no chance and that we will together defend our cities and citizens from russia, we will have more impetus towards our victory and today we have yet again underlined that we have a common vision with regards to the perspectives of this war, we have coordinated the follow—on pressure on the terrorist state, we are working hard on the reinforcement of sanctions both bilaterally and in the form of 67, which is very important. president zelensky speaking in the last hour or so. i'm joined

president zelensky speaking in the last hour orso. i'mjoined by professor scott lucas. how significant is this visit? it is hu . e. significant is this visit? it is hue. it significant is this visit? it is huge- it is _ significant is this visit? it is huge. it is huge _ significant is this visit? it is huge. it is huge as - huge. it is huge as political theatre, and political theatre is important. biden is their showing us support for president zelensky, but he repeatedly talked about international support for ukraine, more than 50 countries providing military support and continue to do so. there are other practical outcomes, such as the us commitment to another $500 million in age, and also i think it is setting out the fact that this is not going to be a

matter of days or weeks. we now know the first phase of the war has ended with a russian defeat. russia hasn't been able to take kyiv, they haven't been able to take kyiv, they haven't been able to take kyiv, they haven't been able to take much of the country. they will struggle even with the last—ditch offences, and now we enter the second phase, which is how far ukraine can go whither it counteroffensive. how much it can liberate and at what point you say to brian may putin, here is the situation. now you need to talk to hand accept the outcome. fist situation. now you need to talk to hand accept the outcome. at what oint does hand accept the outcome. at what point does that _ hand accept the outcome. at what point does that come? _ hand accept the outcome. at what point does that come? we've i hand accept the outcome. at what point does that come? we've also i point does that come? we've also seen that china does not support rusher in this war, from antony blinken, it's in their hands. the

warninus blinken, it's in their hands. the warnings to _ blinken, it's in their hands. inez warnings to china blinken, it's in their hands. ti;e: warnings to china not blinken, it's in their hands. ti9 warnings to china not to blinken, it's in their hands. ti9: warnings to china not to come blinken, it's in their hands. ti9 warnings to china not to come in to save vladimir putin are not new. they were first made in fact only weeks after the invasion last march by us officials, and china by and large has refrained from providing significant military aid to russia. what seen is the stage most significant staging of ukraine for the counteroffensive, when tanks reach the battlefield, will there be fighterjets provided, and then we have a calibration, can ukraine liberate much of the east, including territory held by russia since 2014? can they liberate territory in the south? probably significantly, the biggest of contention among allies, can ukraine make a push to reclaim

the crimean peninsula seized by russia nine years ago? we're not talking an imminent ukrainian counteroffensive, we are looking for one high point, important point in what would be a serious of discussions going into the summer. if the battle extends to those territories that you have mentioned, that will take more time, more force, more money, at a time when politically governments in europe and the us will be worried about waning public support, the us uk elections next year.— waning public support, the us uk elections next year. let's talk not only about _ elections next year. let's talk not only about what _ elections next year. let's talk not only about what the _ elections next year. let's talk not only about what the leaders i elections next year. let's talk not only about what the leaders of i elections next year. let's talk not. only about what the leaders of kyiv today, but what others have said, that the starting point for this is not, are we helping ukraine to commit an aggression against russia? the starting point was russian aggression. vladimir putin's aggression. vladimir putin's aggression. the question you have right now is, do we allow putin to

remain in occupation of ukrainian territories which we have scene declared as part of russia? those squeaking wheels get the grease, from both the right and the left, people asking why are we supporting ukraine, is a costing too much? for those around much of the world, the answer is still common yes, it is not only valuable but imperative to continue to support ukraine as it defends itself against an invasion that has killed many tens of thousands.— that has killed many tens of thousands. 9 ~ :, , , ., ., thousands. we know this is having a hue thousands. we know this is having a huge impact — thousands. we know this is having a huge impact globally, _ thousands. we know this is having a huge impact globally, there - thousands. we know this is having a huge impact globally, there are i thousands. we know this is having a| huge impact globally, there are huge numbers of casualties on the ground, and talking about territory crimea, doesn't a risk humiliating moscow, and, again, the risk of them wanting

to escalate themselves or to bring in more help from china? i to escalate themselves or to bring in more help from china?- to escalate themselves or to bring in more help from china? i take this aeneral in more help from china? i take this general point _ in more help from china? i take this general point and _ in more help from china? i take this general point and then _ in more help from china? i take this general point and then the - in more help from china? i take this general point and then the specific. general point and then the specific point they say, look, if you do this, ah, you. iwill not point they say, look, if you do this, ah, you. i will not come at you with nuclear weapons, will, is movies more powerful weapons. even as he plays the victim, i have to defend myself, he says, iwill as he plays the victim, i have to defend myself, he says, i will be the bigger aggressor against you. his game is to split ukraine from the us and the international community. so far it has not worked. you asked me, what we do they do it again? we stay the course. on the question of crimea, that will come up question of crimea, that will come up with they take more territory to the south, and if it comes up there is a ten point plan, a ukrainian flag that you have heard about today, that they will discuss an

arrangement people of crimea can choose their own future. will you accept that where you accept that a week to occupy? you will be illegally invading us, it's your choice, vladimir.— illegally invading us, it's your choice, vladimir. many questions obviously ahead, _ choice, vladimir. many questions obviously ahead, a _ choice, vladimir. many questions obviously ahead, a key _ choice, vladimir. many questions obviously ahead, a key week i choice, vladimir. many questions i obviously ahead, a key week ahead, thank you. with me now is vitaliy shevchenko who is russia editor at bbc monitoring. we are talking a lot about diplomacy, but what is happening in military terms of the battlefield? either side being honest about how many casualties they have suffered? i don't think it would be realistic to expect a warring party to be completely and utterly honest about its losses, because it would obviously help their enemy, so when we talk about russia's losses are

ukraine's losses, there is the adjustment has to be given, it is difficult to completely have any degree of accuracy in verifying the numbers, so in terms of the fighting ukraine it is still focused... just ukraine it is still focused. .. just let me pick _ ukraine it is still focused. .. just let me pick up _ ukraine it is still focused. .. just let me pick up on _ ukraine it is still focused... just let me pick up on the casualties before we move on, because in november the us said they estimated it was 100,000 on each side, 100,000 russians and 100,000 ukrainians also. we have any independently verified information on that? blot verified information on that? not any figures _ verified information on that? iifrit any figures that would be totally and completely reliable. ukraine says russia has suffered 140,000 casualties so far, but that again is something that ukraine will have to be interested in saying, and russia itself, it is not revealing its figures for a long time now, so that is why these figures, they play a

role in propaganda efforts waged by both parties. coming back to the fighting in the east, to still focused on the eastern donetsk region, russia has been trying to take it for months and failing, and questions are being asked of ukraine, is it really worth holding on to bakhmut, which ukraine is saying, there is a reason we are so determined to stay there, which is to set russia's resources, to distract russia from a possible spring offensive that it might want to launch, and russia's had some incremental success around bakhmut, but ukraine are still there, even though president zelensky said last night that keeping bakhmut in ukrainian hands will not be done at any cost, so that might be seen as a suggestion that ukraine might be

preparing to abandon it to save its troops. in preparing to abandon it to save its troo s. , :, ., ,, ., troops. in terms of what the russian ress, the troops. in terms of what the russian press, the media, _ troops. in terms of what the russian press, the media, social— troops. in terms of what the russian press, the media, social media i troops. in terms of what the russian press, the media, social media is. press, the media, social media is saying about this, you are obviously across all of that too, what is being said about casualties, about the military position, also about the military position, also about the spring offensive?— the military position, also about the spring offensive? there are two arts of the spring offensive? there are two parts of the — the spring offensive? there are two parts of the story. _ the spring offensive? there are two parts of the story. if— the spring offensive? there are two parts of the story. if you _ the spring offensive? there are two parts of the story. if you look i the spring offensive? there are two parts of the story. if you look at i parts of the story. if you look at official kremlin control channels, they tried to look the other way. casualties, bad news, defeats, it isn't something state—run television isn't something state—run television is that interest, but if you look at the more independent, shall we say, commentators on social media, such as on telegram, people who do support this war, they have been asking questions for months about why is it taking so long, why isn't russia's war effort getting enough support? why do we have to enlist

prisoners to go fighting ukraine? why are private companies not getting enough ammunition? does the questions that are being asked, but president putin himself, he does not really come in for much criticism. he is seen as above the fray. whatever doubt there is in the russian pro—war circles, that focused on the top brass, but not president putin. he is impeccable in their eyes. i president putin. he is impeccable in theire es. , ., :, , their eyes. i 'ust want to bring in this line their eyes. i 'ust want to bring in this tine we — their eyes. i just want to bring in this line we are _ their eyes. i just want to bring in this line we are seeing _ their eyes. i just want to bring in this line we are seeing develop, | their eyes. i just want to bring in i this line we are seeing develop, the worry about what role china might play, we know the us secretary of state antony blinken has been in turkey making his counterpart there. he claims that china is considering arming russia in its war against ukraine. he claimed there would be real

consequences in our relationship were china to offer assistance to russia in this war against ukraine or in a systematic way in the invasion of sanctions, and we have a real concern that china's considering doing just that. i will not layouts what the consequences will be, i shared these concerns directly with the senior chinese foreign policy official when i saw him at the munich security conference just the other day, but i think china understands what is at risk, were it to proceed with providing materials support of that kind to russia. we providing materials support of that kind to russia.— providing materials support of that kind to russia. we understand china and russia having _ kind to russia. we understand china and russia having potentially - kind to russia. we understand china and russia having potentially today, | and russia having potentially today, we have also seen it reported that ukrainian president, mr zelensky done an interview in germany saying,

should china allied with russia there would be a world war. a very stark message there, but fears about escalation very clear. we've also been hearing about the eu foreign policy chief who has one china are providing military assistance to russia's war effort in ukraine. the europeans also warning that if china gets involved in lethal military age this would be a red line in relations between the eu and beijing. this was the eu foreign policy chief speaking in brussels, rennie said he raised strong concerns over the issue with china's top foreign policy official in recent talks, and this comes after the us says it believes china was considering providing weapons, but

they denied the claims, saying it was america that was endlessly sending weapons to the battlefield. the question is, really, if the west escalates aid, we are hearing about another 500 million, we are hearing president zelensky coffers fighter jets foot, where the then feels it also has to step up in terms and foreign support in china. the tuestion foreign support in china. the question is — foreign support in china. the question is how _ foreign support in china. ti9 question is how they can do it, because for years president putin has been wanting to get more out of china. in his media, state—run media and russia, he tried to create the impression that china and russia in the new focal points of world diplomacy, and emerging alliance of

superpowers, but the reality is that even though china and russia share a deep distrust of the rest, russia has not really been getting much in terms of chinese weaponry or technology. it has had to go to iran to obtain drawings state has been using against ukraine. if the changes, that would mean a huge escalation, because inch terms of sheer mites, economic and military, china can really tip the balance in the war in ukraine.— the war in ukraine. finally, briefl , the war in ukraine. finally, briefly, president - the war in ukraine. finally, briefly, president putin i the war in ukraine. finally, | briefly, president putin also the war in ukraine. finally, i briefly, president putin also has his own plans for this week, the speech i think during the next day or two. what do you senses the mood in moscow politically at the moment? he is under pressure to continue selling the war, and once the one—year anniversary approaches he will have to try really hard to justify continuous war. he will try really hard to give any successes,

anything he has achieved in this war, that is something i'm looking forward to seeing what he says tomorrow in his address to the nation. , :, ., , nation. he is doing a televised address? _ nation. he is doing a televised address? he _ nation. he is doing a televised address? he is _ nation. he is doing a televised address? he is addressing i nation. he is doing a televised | address? he is addressing both houses of parliament, - address? he is addressing both houses of parliament, it i address? he is addressing both houses of parliament, it will. address? he is addressing bothi houses of parliament, it will be address? he is addressing both i houses of parliament, it will be all over television.— over television. public supports ve hard over television. public supports very hard to — over television. public supports very hard to gauge? _ over television. public supports i very hard to gauge? demonstrating atainst very hard to gauge? demonstrating a t ainst this very hard to gauge? demonstrating against this war _ very hard to gauge? demonstrating against this war is _ very hard to gauge? demonstrating against this war is dangerous, i against this war is dangerous, difficult, it is not there in russia at the moment.— difficult, it is not there in russia at the moment. thank you, we will 'ust leave at the moment. thank you, we will just leave you _ at the moment. thank you, we will just leave you the _ at the moment. thank you, we will just leave you the sound _ at the moment. thank you, we will just leave you the sound with i at the moment. thank you, we will just leave you the sound with the l just leave you the sound with the pictures we have had in of this momentous visit byjoe biden, the us president in kyiv, even as the country fights for its freedom, a pledge of $500 million, no talk of fighterjets that present zelensky has been calling for, but a clear show of symbolic strength, even as the eu and the us plan how they will

continue their support for ukraine with russia also committed to this ongoing battle. we will bring you continue coverage here on bbc news. hello. the spring flowers have certainly been enjoying the milder conditions we've seen over the past few days, and that will continue for a couple of days yet, but there will be changes this week. more of an area of widespread rain during the middle part of the week, and that will introduce something a bit colder. not desperately cold, but return us back to where we should feel for this stage in february. so far today, though, area of low pressure pushing past the far north of scotland, this tempered the feel of things somewhat. strong and gusty winds using a little bit as we go through the day, but still blustery here, lots of sunny spells. plenty of cloud, though, through scotland, northern ireland, north—west england. outbreaks of rain or drizzle, especially on the hills in the west. away from that, most places dry. sunny spells across central and eastern parts of england

and wales and to the north—east of scotland, and note the temperatures. significantly above where we should be for this stage in february, 15, 16 degrees possible in eastern england, should be closer to around 8. into this evening and overnight, the mild theme continues. the rain and drizzle continue to go and come across parts of north and west scotland. heavier bursts later in the night. elsewhere, dry nights, and a very mild one. 5 to around 10 celsius to start tuesday morning. so, tuesday, another day of lots of cloud, especially in the west, spots of light rain or drizzle, but overall a drier day. heavy rain to begin within north—west of will push its way northwards, and then more rain into the western isles later. some sunny breaks to the east of high ground, this time north—east scotland could see some of the highest temperatures. 14—16 degrees here. but, as i said, there are changes through the night and into wednesday. we'll see outbreaks of rain pushed their way eastwards. rainfall amounts will be a bit more hit and miss across southern parts of the country. what it does, it introduces cooler conditions, not desperately cold, but certainly cooler than we started the week with. for wednesday itself, cloud, outbreaks of rain initially across central and eastern parts, brightening up from the west,

sunshine and showers, those showers turning wintry over higher ground in scotland and northern ireland later, but even though it is turning cooler, 7—11 degrees, still a little bit above where we would normally expect that this stage in february. but what will follow will be a chillier night with the widespread frost to take us into thursday morning. some showers initially across east anglia and the south clearing, but after a bright start in scotland and northern ireland, clouding over here with further outbreaks of rain arriving. temperatures more widely into single figures, but as we go through friday and into the weekend, it does look like things will turn, well, a good deal quieter once again. high pressure builds, overnight frost, pleasant enough by day, just one or two showers in the south.

this is bbc news. i'm rebecca jones. the headlines... president biden makes a surprise visit to kyiv, reaffirming the us�*s 'unwavering' support to ukraine's democracy. kyiv stands and ukraine stands. democracy stands. the americans stand with you, and the world stands with you. president biden's visit comes as the anniversary of russia's invasion approaches. president zelensky says the democratic world has to 'win this historic fight.�* in other news, the family of nicola bulley describe their agony as police find a body

in the river near the place she went missing. thousands of ambulance staff in england and wales take part in fresh strikes amid an ongoing dispute over pay. bbc research reveals over half of england's schools for children with special educational needs and disabilities are oversubscribed. hello and welcome to bbc news. president biden is in ukraine on a surprise visit to kyiv, nearly one year on from the russian invasion. let'sjoin our let's join our colleagues in let'sjoin our colleagues in bbc world now and lyse doucet, who is in

kyiv. you join us here in kyiv on a historic day, a deeply significant day freighted with huge symbolism as well as substance. for the past 24 hours, there's been intense speculation here and in many capitals about which world leader was coming to visit kyiv. and with every hour as the security measures tightened here, the speculation grew. could the us presidentjoe biden, who seemed to be at the united states, could he possibly be here in kyiv this morning? and indeed you can see behind me the gold domes saint michael's cathedral just before noon under a bright winter's sun. president biden in his aviator glasses and dark coat strolled out of the cathedral alongside ukraine's president. the two leaders laid wreaths at the wall

of remembrance. notjust the war that began almost a year ago to the day, but also began in 2014 when russia first annexed the occupied crimea and russian forces went across the border into eastern ukraine. presidentjoe biden said he was here to send a strong personal message to the ukrainian leader, to the people of ukraine that american support was solid and it would continue. president zelensky only recently made his own visit to the united states and spoke before congress, thanked the us leader, saying that reminding presidentjoe biden that he had been the first leader to call a year ago when russian forces came across the border and attacked the ukrainian capital. and now here he is sending another strong message. the two leaders also addressed a joint press

conference. first let's hear what presidentjoe biden has to say as he paid tribute to the ukrainian leader and promised continuing support. so, president zelensky, you deeply honour me here in kyiv with you today. to meet with your military, your intelligence folks, your diplomatic teams, community leaders who have stepped up to help their country in their hour of need. it is astounding who stood up, everybody. everybody. women, young children, trying to do something, just trying to do something. pulling people out of apartments that were being shelled, and literally war crimes. it is astounding. the whole world sees it. and looks at it.

this is the largest [and war in europe in three quarters of a century. and you are succeeding against all and every expectation except your own. we have every confidence that you are going to continue to prevail. you know, from the moment i first received an intelligence report in the fall about a year ago, we were focused on determining how do we rally the rest of the world? how do i help you with the promise you asked me to make to rally the world? well, how do you succeed? how do you get a world to respond? to a prosperous economy, a confident democracy, a secure and independent state,

when united americans of all political backgrounds decided they would step up. american people know it matters. unchecked aggression is a threat to all of us. we built a coalition of nations from the atlantic to the pacific, nato in the atlantic, japan in the pacific, across the world — a number of nations of over 50, who helped ukraine defend itself with unprecedented military, economic and humanitarian support. we united the leading economies of the world to impose unprecedented cost, squeezing russia's economic lifelines. together we have committed nearly 700 tanks, and thousands of armoured vehicles. 1,000 artillery systems.

more than 2 million rounds of artillery ammunition. more than 50 advanced launch rocket systems. and air defence systems. all sent to defend ukraine, and that does not count the other half a billion dollars we are announcing with you today and tomorrow, that is going to be coming your way. and that's just the united states in this piece. and just today, that announcement includes artillery ammunition for himars and howitzers, more javelins, anti—armour systems, air surveillance radars that will help protect people from aerial bombardments. later this week, we will announce additional sanctions against elites and companies that are trying to evade sanctions and backfill russia's war machine. and thanks to bipartisan support in congress, this week we are delivering billions

in direct budgetary support, billions in direct budgetary support. which the government can put to use immediately and help provide for basic services of citizens. the cost that ukraine has had to bear has been extraordinarily high, and the sacrifices have been far too great, far too great. we mourn alongside the families of those who have been lost in the brutal and unjust war. we know there will be very difficult days and weeks and years ahead, but russia's aim was to wipe ukraine off the map. putin's war conquest is failing. russia's military has lost half its territory it once occupied. young talented russians are fleeing by the tens of thousands, not wanting to come back to russia.

presidentjoe president joe biden, leading presidentjoe biden, leading to on top of— presidentjoe biden, leading to on top of what the united states has already— top of what the united states has already provided, more than $30 billion— already provided, more than $30 billion in— already provided, more than $30 billion in assistance and priceless moral_ billion in assistance and priceless moral support and that is on show here _ moral support and that is on show here today — moral support and that is on show here today. president zelensky was fulsome _ here today. president zelensky was fulsome ih— here today. president zelensky was fulsome in his praise for the support— fulsome in his praise for the support of the united states of america — support of the united states of america and its allies. translation: russia's war against ukraine has to _ translation: russia's war against ukraine has to end _ translation: russia's war against ukraine has to end with _ translation: russia's war against ukraine has to end with liberating l ukraine has to end with liberating the whole of ukraine's territory from russia's occupation, and that's all guarantees of the long—term security for our country as well as

europe and the whole world. right now in ukraine, the destiny of the international order based on international order based on international order based on international order is decided, and we together with the president biden and our allies and partners have to continue doing everything possible so that the democratic world would win in this historic fight. ukrainians remember the attitude of president biden in the united states to every single ukrainian. we remain in constant communication with the president of the united states over the course of this large—scale war and this is the first visit over 15 years and this is really the most important visit in the whole of our

history relationship. ukraine is fighting for the liberties of the world and this underlines the results that we have already achieved and what sort of historic achievements we might gain altogether with the whole world, with the united states, with europe and today our negotiations were very fruitful. they were very important and crucial, as has become traditional in the relationship between our countries i would like to extend words of gratitude personally to president biden and his team, to the congress and to all the us people, and i thank you for this level of us ukraine cooperation. this week will be marking one year of our fight against russia's aggression so it is very symbolic that we solidify our

resilience through two meetings with the president of ukraine. my visit in december and the visit of the president of the united states to kyiv today. the results of this visit will truly be seen and will truly have a reflection on the battlefield in liberating our territories. the decision of the united states on tanks for ukraine has already presented a foundation for establishing a tank coalition and its historic importance in many other aspects, and its historic importance in many otheraspects, more and its historic importance in many other aspects, more specifically in air defence and patriot is for the defence of our cities. this is a fundamental and crucial reinforcement of our capacities. we have also talked about long range weapons and the weapons that may still be supplied to ukraine, even though it wasn't supplied before. i know, mr president, that there will

be a very significant package of security support to ukraine, and currently it will serve as a clear signal that russia's attempts will have no chance and that we will together defend our citizens from russia, we will have more impetus towards our victory today we have yet again underlined that we have our common vision with regards to the perspectives of this war. we have coordinated the follow—on pressure on the terrorist state. we are working hard on the reinforcement of sanctions both bilaterally and in the form of g7, which is very important. thea which is very important. two presidents — which is very important. two presidents standing - which is very important. two presidents standing shoulder to shoulder. president biden has now left the _ shoulder. president biden has now left the ukrainian capital kyiv, a visit lasting only a few hours. it was strong _ visit lasting only a few hours. it was strong on symbolism and military

support _ was strong on symbolism and military support. president biden says kyiv stands, _ support. president biden says kyiv stands, ukraine's dance, democracy stands, _ stands, ukraine's dance, democracy stands, and — stands, ukraine's dance, democracy stands, and president zelensky made it clear_ stands, and president zelensky made it clear that _ stands, and president zelensky made it clear that wouldn't have happened without _ it clear that wouldn't have happened without the support of the united states _ without the support of the united states and so many other allies. police in lancashire searching for nicola bulley have begun the formal process of identifying a body found yesterday in the river wyre, close to where she disappeared. the 45—year—old was last seen more than three weeks ago walking her dog near st michael's on wyre. our north of england correspondent judith moritz reports. the search for nicola bulley has been on land, in water and by air. now, finally, there is news that could be significant. the police were called just after 11.30 yesterday morning to reports of a body in the river wyre. the nearest road was quickly closed off and the footpath along the water's edge also sealed. after a mammoth search,

which extended all the way to the sea, this discovery was made within a short distance where nicola went missing near to the village of st michael's on wyre. she was last seen more than three weeks ago in a field where she was walking her dog. her phone was then discovered on a bench next to the water. the body was found downriver about a mile away. an underwater search team and specialist officers went into the water and recovered the body before it was taken away for the identification process to begin. a forensics tent was erected to preserve the scene. this stretch of water is tidal in nature and there is a very fast flowing stretch of water that leads into the irish sea. and, you know, the way that the tides come and go, if there was anything such as a human body, it is possible that body could have flown in and flown out and there's eventually been

out and has eventually been given up by the water. it is too early to know whether it is nicola who has been found. lancashire police say that herfamily is being kept informed as work is carried out to identify the remains. these aerial pictures show the stretch of riverjust after the bend where the discovery was made. it's an area which was searched with sonar equipment and divers, but search teams said that some parts of the water were hard to see because of debris. the investigation into nicola bulley�*s disappearance has attracted widespread speculation and, after the police released personal details about her, there's also been a public and political backlash. and at the centre of it all there is a distressed family who are waiting for news. judith moritz, bbc news, lancashire. julie mackay is a former detective superintendent with avon and somerset police. she explained some of the challenges the police may have faced

during the investigation so far. the discovery of the body in the river is exactly, if you go back to the criticism of the police from the early doors, is exactly what they predicted was the most likely scenario that had happened to her. so for their working hypotheses from day one was that it was accidental or misadventure and she has gone into the river sadly is likely to be deceased. so when people are levelling criticism, the fury that has then followed has come from intense media scrutiny and the social media investigative stances that so many people seem to have taken. it is important to go back to where they started and think about that. because this was their working hypotheses, they have invested a lot of time, professionalism and expertise searching the river. not just as you have said with police experts and police divers but also with independent specialists who have used their sonar equipment as

well, and none of those were able to locate that body at that location at the time they were searching it. there's lots of explanations for that. trying to find people in water is not as straightforward as you might think. i heard in your report a reference to the tidal nature of the river and how possibly that has had an impact on it, and i'm sure that when they come to debrief all of this, which is a regular process in policing, around each aspect of it and in particular that search process, they will look at if they missed anything or if we have to accept that sometimes these are the way things work out. that accept that sometimes these are the way things work out.— way things work out. that was julie macka , a way things work out. that was julie mackay, a former— way things work out. that was julie mackay, a former detective - mackay, a former detective superintendent with avon and somerset police. let's go live to our correspondent rowan bridge who's in st michael's on wyre. good to have you with us. is there any indication as to how long it might take to identify this body?

no, i mean yesterday someone from lancashire police said the process of identification was under way but they haven't given any more updates on that since then. i think the agony, as nicola bulley�*s partner paul ansell but it continues. just away from the river where i am, there was a bridge over the river and that is tied with yellow ribbons and that is tied with yellow ribbons and daffodils that have been left by well—wishers wanting to keep her name and face in the public eye. there is still missing posters in the village appealing for information. that is also, as well as keeping her name in the public eye, has created lots of online on helpful really speculation and conspiracy theories about what may have happened to nicola, which has caused great distress both to her family is in difficulties for the

police investigation. the police investigation itself has come in for questioning over their decision to release personal information about her struggles with alcohol and the menopause. subsequent to that being released, herfamily menopause. subsequent to that being released, her family said they understood that was going to be released and that they were aware people were trying to sell stories about nicola to the media. all of which i think has been extremely distressing for the family and really a distraction from the search. at the centre of this is a family who are deeply suffering at the moment, and attacked nicola bulley�*s partner paul ansell said, "there are no words right now, just agony." that is what this family are going through at the moment. just ttickin u- going through at the moment. just picking up on one point you are making, i wonder if you could tell us more about what you think the implications could be for the way police conduct these investigations in the future.

police conduct these investigations in the future-— police conduct these investigations in the future. yes, i mean, i should start off by — in the future. yes, i mean, i should start off by saying _ in the future. yes, i mean, i should start off by saying that _ in the future. yes, i mean, i should start off by saying that lancashire l start off by saying that lancashire police themselves are saying they are conducting their own internal review of the way this investigation has been carried out. the information commissioner has also said he will be asking questions of lancashire police about their decision to release some of the personal information. but there is a broader question really around the role of social media in all of this, and this is the first time i think i have dealt with a police missing persons investigation which has really [it up the internet in this way and created its own problems which i think the police will have to think about how they handle that into the future. for example, you have had people turning up carrying out their own "investigations" and posting material to social media, such that the police had to put the dispersal order in place to prevent people coming to the area and potentially disturbing evidence. i

think that will be a feature of the modern media world on something that police forces will have to think about going forward and how they may have to deal with those issues. thank you. ambulance workers in england and wales are on strike again in an ongoing dispute over pay and conditions. more than 10,000 workers are taking part in today's industrial action, with one union boss accusing the government of "putting its head in the sand" over the issue. peter ruddick has the details. paramedics, emergency care assistants and 999 call handlers are once again swapping ambulances and control rooms for picket lines. workers from the gmb and unite unions are walking out and seven different ambulance areas across england are affected. they will be joined by staff in wales after the gmb followed unite in rejecting a pay offer from the welsh government. in total, more than 10,000 people will be taking part in a dispute which shows little sign of being resolved.

the minister hasn't met with us for several weeks, there's no dates in the diary. it seems that the government just simply want to put their head in the sand and hope this all disappears. the mood amongst our members is very strong, they are getting increasingly angry about the way that they're being treated over this, they feel they have put in a fair claim that should be addressed. but sadly, the government are more interested in playing politics. the reality is that if public sympathy was enough to win a dispute, we would have won this already. one ambulance service in the north west tightened the definition of what calls it will answer today. however, unions say they will continue to respond to emergencies. elsewhere in the nhs, a ballot of 45,000 junior doctors from the british medical association closes at midday. one of the smaller health unions has today confirmed several hundred of its junior doctor members will also be striking next month. health secretary steve barclay said the government remains keen to talk to unions about a fair and affordable deal but that strikes are in nobody�*s best interests.

peter ruddick, bbc news. the most dangerous domestic abusers will be monitored more closely and electronically tagged under new government plans. almost £8.5 million will be spent over the next two years on plans which include specialist victim support programmes. labour welcomed the move but said the government should be doing more to tackle violence against women and girls. ruth davison is the ceo of the domestic violence charity refuge. shejoins me now in the studio. really good to have you with us. broadly speaking, do you welcome these proposals?— these proposals? yes, we do, we welcome the _ these proposals? yes, we do, we welcome the cross _ these proposals? yes, we do, we welcome the cross departmental| welcome the cross departmental support and the fact the prime minister himself has put his name to this. that speaks of the scale of the epidemic of violence against women and girls that we are seeing

and the need to respond, but frankly the list of measures underneath this announcement we don't think go far enough as refuge. many have been announced before, this is not new funding, and many of them are small pilots with —— which won't make the changes we need. pilots with -- which won't make the changes we need.— changes we need. adding the worst offenders of — changes we need. adding the worst offenders of coercive _ changes we need. adding the worst offenders of coercive behaviour i changes we need. adding the worst offenders of coercive behaviour to l offenders of coercive behaviour to the sex offenders register, are you saying that doesn't go far enough? i am absolutely saying it doesn't go far enough. of course it will help to have the most serious offenders on this register, that is a positive step, but most crimes of this nature are not even reported. four out of five of the women we work with that refuge never go to the police and trust and confidence in the police has never been so low, so many people will be missed from this measure. to take radical action we need to prevent this at source and for me that is about education. we went last week to present a petition to the prime minister calling for

mandatory education to help young women and boys recognise what is coercive control and what is a healthy relationship. ththd coercive control and what is a healthy relationship. and what res . onse healthy relationship. and what response did _ healthy relationship. and what response did you _ healthy relationship. and what response did you get? - healthy relationship. and what response did you get? we i healthy relationship. and what response did you get? we are | healthy relationship. and what - response did you get? we are waiting for a response — response did you get? we are waiting for a response but _ response did you get? we are waiting for a response but we _ response did you get? we are waiting for a response but we would - response did you get? we are waiting for a response but we would love i response did you get? we are waiting for a response but we would love the | for a response but we would love the campaigners from make it mandatory to talk about what that would mean and look like in our schools. the government _ and look like in our schools. the government has _ and look like in our schools. the government has announced nearly {8.5 government has announced nearly £8.5 million in investment over two years for victim support programmes, you are saying none of that is new money? are saying none of that is new mone ? �* ,, ., are saying none of that is new mone ? �* ., ., ., :, money? i'm saying we are aware of that announcement _ money? i'm saying we are aware of that announcement and _ money? i'm saying we are aware of that announcement and the - money? i'm saying we are aware of that announcement and the money| money? i'm saying we are aware of. that announcement and the money is welcome but it is woefully inadequate given the scale of the problem. one in four women will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime and this money doesn't go far enough, even with the additional funds for perpetrator prevention programmes. you funds for perpetrator prevention programmes-— funds for perpetrator prevention ttrorammes. :, ., :, funds for perpetrator prevention ttrorammes. :, :, :, :, programmes. you have mentioned more education, programmes. you have mentioned more education. what — programmes. you have mentioned more education, what else _ programmes. you have mentioned more education, what else would _ programmes. you have mentioned more education, what else would make i programmes. you have mentioned more education, what else would make a i education, what else would make a difference? , :, ., difference? restoring faith in olicin t difference? restoring faith in policing is — difference? restoring faith in policing is critical _ difference? restoring faith in policing is critical at - difference? restoring faith in policing is critical at the i difference? restoring faith in i

policing is critical at the moment. we are saying why not immediately suspend police officers who are accused of this kind of crime so that we as women have more confidence to go forward and report if it happens to us? there is also a huge opportunity with the upcoming online safety bill to put in a code of practice about violence against women and girls. just of practice about violence against women and girls.— of practice about violence against women and girls. just to take a step back, let's look _ women and girls. just to take a step back, let's look at _ women and girls. just to take a step back, let's look at a _ women and girls. just to take a step back, let's look at a scenario - women and girls. just to take a step back, let's look at a scenario where l back, let's look at a scenario where someone who believes that their partner or perhaps former partner is controlling or coercive, what are the circumstances when they should go to the police? i the circumstances when they should go to the police?— go to the police? i think if you ever feel _ go to the police? i think if you ever feel unsafe _ go to the police? i think if you ever feel unsafe or _ go to the police? i think if you ever feel unsafe or uncertain i go to the police? i think if you i ever feel unsafe or uncertain about your relationship, you should absolutely speak to someone. that may well be the police, and if you feel in danger you should ring 999 if you feel able to. an alternative is to come to refuge, we run a 24 hour domestic abuse helpline. we will believe you, and we will support you. but if you are not feeling safe or not feeling certain

that your relationship is what you thought it was, it is imperative you speak out to whoever you can. find speak out to whoever you can. and what would — speak out to whoever you can. and what would you _ speak out to whoever you can. and what would you be looking for from the police to rest assured that anybody�*s complaint is being put at the top of the agenda? first anybody's complaint is being put at the top of the agenda?— the top of the agenda? first and foremost we _ the top of the agenda? first and foremost we are _ the top of the agenda? first and foremost we are looking - the top of the agenda? first and foremost we are looking for i the top of the agenda? first and i foremost we are looking for empathy, foremost we are looking for empathy, for some kind of an understanding. even in the wake of the horrendous headlines over the last few weeks, we know that women who have been contacting the police have been told things like "why are you bothering now? you have been married to this man for seven years, why are you making a fuss? " it needs to be recognised as a serious crime. ruth davidson of— recognised as a serious crime. ruth davidson of the _ recognised as a serious crime. ruth davidson of the charity refuge, really good to have you with us, thank you. let's catch up with the weather news now. here is helen. we have a lot of cloud across the

country. let me show you the satellite picture. the sunshine is in the north blowing a gale across the northern isles. we have the sunshine across into east anglia and thatis sunshine across into east anglia and that is probably where we'll keep the best of the sunshine. this is the best of the sunshine. this is the weather front giving some rain across the north of scotland. it is drizzly in western areas of england and wales and northern ireland, but it is mild. 16 is likely in the sunny spot we saw on the satellite picture. but because of the cloud and wind overnight, the wind is easing down but generally speaking still quite a breeze, it's going to be mild. temperatures at 506 at the very lowest. but colder areas on the way later in the week. for tomorrow again, a lot of cloud, a lot of dry weather around away from the north and west. where we see the sunshine though, 13 degrees on the cards.

hello, this is bbc news. the headlines: president biden makes a surprise visit to kyiv — reaffirming the us�*s unwavering support to ukraine's democracy. biden's visit comes as the anniversary of russia's invasion approaches. president zelensky says the democratic world has to win this historic fight. in other news, the family of nicola bulley describe their agony as police find a body in the river near the place she went missing. thousands of ambulance staff in england and wales take part in fresh strikes amid an ongoing dispute over pay. bbc research reveals over half of england's schools for children with special educational needs and disabilities are oversubscribed.

president biden is in ukraine on a surprise visit to the kyiv nearly a year on after the invasion. he said it would confirm the commitment to ukraine's sovereignty and integrity. kim derek is and ambassador to the united states. thanks forjoining us on bbc news. the surprise visit, how significant is it in terms of political theatre and symbolism, coming as it does almost a year to the days since russia invaded? i think it's profoundly symbolic and very, very important. let's remember, this is an 80—year—old man, the leader of the free world, visiting a war zone, and there have been shells and missiles raining

down on kyiv, he's taken some risks, and not to mention the silence, arrangements was being difficult to put in place. his announced another 500 million of support to ukraine, shall be important, but it's a symbol of what is up on the war, he has taken a risk to go there and he's even had a walkabout on the streets of the city, so an extraordinary picture and i really extraordinary picture and i really extraordinary moment. we extraordinary picture and i really extraordinary moment.— extraordinary picture and i really extraordinary moment. we are looking at some of the — extraordinary moment. we are looking at some of the pictures _ extraordinary moment. we are looking at some of the pictures i _ extraordinary moment. we are looking at some of the pictures i see _ extraordinary moment. we are looking at some of the pictures i see speak. i at some of the pictures i see speak. what about the political significance of this visit? i'm thinking both in terms obviously for president zelensky, but also possibly for president biden back at home. for possibly for president biden back at home. ., ~ ., ., , , home. for the ukrainians, in terms of visible demonstrations _ home. for the ukrainians, in terms of visible demonstrations of - of visible demonstrations of support, doesn't get any better than the american president coming to a

war zone to demonstrate that, and actually, although i wouldn't say there was universal support across europe for the supplies to ukraine, the support ukraine, it has been better than some of us had expected, i'd be pretty solid i don't expect that to continue at least for the next few months. —— and i expect that to continue. in terms of biden domestically, he will believe he has had a good war so far, he has kept the western alliance together and has kept out at the forefront, and given his ambitions to run for a second term,

it is helpful domestically, it also throws light on a certain amount of division with those on the right, and it will put a spotlight on them as well. therefore how important is the continuing support of the european union leaders meeting today to discuss what help they might send to ukraine? let's be clear, almost completely dependent on western support to prosecute this war, continue to fight this war, they have done _ continue to fight this war, hazy have done extraordinary effectively so far, so they need western ammunition, they need western weapons, they are getting some long—distance stuff coming in soon,

they are asking for aeroplanes, which i think will be somewhere in the distance, but they could not do what they are doing without constant western support, constant western supplies of weapons, so it's absolutely critical, if nato believes, as it is said, that russia must be defeated driven back from the land is taken, then continuing western military supplies for as long as is needed will be absolutely essential. ., ., essential. finalthought, the reaction of — essential. finalthought, the reaction of the _ essential. finalthought, the reaction of the russians - essential. finalthought, the reaction of the russians to l essential. final thought, the i reaction of the russians to this visit, what are the risks if any in your view of provoking russia, and give us an insight if you would as to how you manage escalation. yeah, look, to how you manage escalation. yeah, look. russia — to how you manage escalation. yeah, look, russia started _ to how you manage escalation. yeah, look, russia started the _ to how you manage escalation. yeah, look, russia started the war, - to how you manage escalation. yeah, look, russia started the war, so - to how you manage escalation. yeah, look, russia started the war, so the l look, russia started the war, so the question is really whether they would have any right to complain about anything the west does. so far, and i hope to stay is the case,

nato is directly involved with supplying things, russia will be happy with biden going there in publicising and demonstrating the reports ukraine, in terms of prompting some big russian response, they won't like it, but remember the russian people are shielded from an awful lot of what is going on in terms of global opinion on what is happening in ukraine, they are told are completely bogus story about what is happening in ukraine, and thatis what is happening in ukraine, and that is not going to change. so, i would hope no escalation as a result of this, there will be a russian verbal response and putin will say something no doubt to show that he still holds the cards, but i think that we can be kept alert. always aood to that we can be kept alert. always good to have _ that we can be kept alert. always good to have your— that we can be kept alert. always good to have your thoughts - that we can be kept alert. always good to have your thoughts and l good to have your thoughts and

insights. half of england's special educational schools are under supplied. this is maltby hilltop school in rotherham. like many specialist schools across the country, there is pressure on places. hello! freya! doing some fantastic walking. the classrooms and corridors are cramped and overcrowded as they take on more pupils. ten years ago they had 82 pupils. now they have 134 and there is a waiting list. how much of your time do you spend looking for space? i mean, it's continual. i mean, mentally and physically, i go round the school time and time again to try and find available space. and this is a case in point.

what i'm about to show you, this was a former resource cupboard, but now we have members of the visual impairment therapy team conducting therapy with our children in this space. in a resource cupboard? in a resource cupboard. afternoon! good afternoon. i'm ashamed. as the headteacher of this school, i genuinely do feel it is shameful that this is what we are providing for our children. you know, and also i know it could be so much betterfor them. they deserve so much better. so what is causing pressure on places? there is increasing diagnosis of special educational needs. some mainstream schools are struggling to cope. we're going to watch that tennis game. funding is an issue. local authorities' high—need budgets are tight, and new specialist schools aren't being built quick enough to cope with the rising demand for places. being able to break out into a space is so important for our kids.

so you have a number of children up on the yard enjoying time outside, but then for some young people in crisis, they need access to a break—out space. we don't have those spaces. it's lunchtime and the children eat in classrooms. the dinner hall is now being used for therapy. it's very soon, jack. dinnertime. we're a little bit cramped. we're always a little bit cramped. what's going on? in a small kitchen, sarah is teaching vital life skills for those in sixth form. the lack of space makes it difficult. it's not ideal at all. you can't have more than four or five people in this room, and i have got seven children in my pizza club. and there's four members of staff. what i want for these children, is what i'd want for my own children. this is like my nest. and they are the birds, my little chicks. and i want them to fly, you know, to fly. and i want them to flourish. some pupils have had to leave the school because they can't cope with the overcrowding. sarah was hoping this day wouldn't come.

she's in school to collect her son cohen's belongings. he's no longer able to learn in the noisy, cramped, portacabins and is now at home. i've just seen his tray. this is his tray. cohen's work. it's really sad to see it because this is where he should be. he should be learning and he should he started to have panic attacks, hyperventilating. he wants to be here, but it's the space is not allowing it. it's hard to see him and he's not engaging in anything other than the same monotonous daily routine. make himjump. emma has come to have a look around with daughter georgie. she's faced delays getting an education and health care plan. a legal document outlining the support georgie needs. and now there's more delay as she waits for a school place to become available. it makes me well up, to be honest, because by the time she'll be coming here in september next year, that'll be two years out of education. soto see her today with the other

children and being somewhere where i know she really, really wants to be, it chokes you up. is there enough recognition of what happens in schools like yours? no, because we shut up and get on with it. that's the problem. and we put up with it and we do the best that we can for the good of the kids. but there comes a point, there comes a breaking point. and we are at utter capacity. so something has to be done. in a statement, the government says it's providing £2.6 billion between now and 2025 to help deliver new school places. this is a school which celebrates every success. look at you in the pool, on the trampoline, washing your hands. but this headteacher is worried that far too many children are being failed by the lack of space and resources in specialist schools across england. elaine dunkley, bbc news, in rotherham.

for more on this story you can watch a documentary on bbc iplayer — it's called send help. in the last hour, they have been announcements on the scottish leadership contest. bring us up to date with exactly what we know about who is standing. over 100,000 snp party members will be the ones who get to decide who is the party, and who in effect is going to be the next first minister of scotland. we have had three candidates throw their hats into the ring thus far, nominations close on

friday, of course anyone who reaches that point has to have the backing of at least 100 party members from 20 different branches, but we know from people who will attempt to get that, ash regan, who resigned in protest of the gender recognition reform bill, she declared her intention to stand yesterday. we heard this morning from humza yousaf who is the health secretary, he launched his campaign this morning, he in effect is seen by many as the continuity candidate, and he said being a continuity concert it is no bad thing. he praised nicola sturgeon for her time in office, he said she was a friend in a mental as well, and he drew attention to the fact he has been in government here

in scotland for over ten years. he says he has the experience, is willing to work across the political divide to get things done and that he saw independence as a way towards a more sociallyjust society. interestingly as well he said there were two things worth drawing out from the commons this morning, he said he still supports the gender recognition reform bill, he sees the section 45 order that was implemented by the government of westminster is an affront to democracy and he also said on the matter of independence that he was not wedded to nicola sturgeon's preferred strategy for another independence referendum, that would be treating the next election as a de facto referendum. he said that was her preference, but he would consult on what the best strategy was when it comes to fighting for another independence referendum, so we heard a speech this morning. this afternoon will hear more details about what kate forbes intends to stand for. she has released some

comments already, she released a campaign video earlier on today on twitter. she said she believes scotland and the snp are at a major crossroads, she said she would pledge to reach out and listen, she said her party needed a leader who was bowled, energised and fresh to the role, but we will hear more from her this afternoon, she is expected to give interviews, shall be travelling down from the north of inverness switch in circumstance currency area where she lives, the nominations close on friday, we will know who has won the competition towards the end of march.- know who has won the competition towards the end of march. thanks are battlin: the towards the end of march. thanks are battling the win. _ towards the end of march. thanks are battling the win, that _ towards the end of march. thanks are battling the win, that was _ towards the end of march. thanks are battling the win, that was heroic. - the headlines on bbc news: president biden makes a surprise visit to kyiv —

reaffirming the us�*s unwavering support to ukraine's democracy. in other news, the family of nicola bulley describe their agony as police find a body in the river near the place she went missing. bbc research reveals over half of england's schools for children with special educational needs and disabilities are oversubscribed. the uk government is preparing to announce a new agreement on post—brexit trading rules for northern ireland this week, but the prime minister rishi sunak says the deal is still by no means done. the northern ireland protocol came into effect in 2021 to allow free movement of goods across the irish [and border by conducting checks between northern ireland and great britain instead. the protocol has been controversial with unionist parties who say it undermines northern ireland's place as part of the uk. home secretary suella braverman says the government is working on a pragmatic solution to the issue.

we've been aware for some time now of challenges relating to trade, customs and sovereignty when it comes to northern ireland and the northern irish protocol, and the legislation the government introduced is one of the biggest tools that we have in solving the problem on the irish sea. it is clear and it is right the prime minister is committed to finding a pragmatic solution to resolve these issues which are affecting the people of northern ireland, and that we find a solution that's pragmatic and workable both for the eu and the united kingdom. labour leader sir keir starmer says the prime minister should put country over party when it comes to negotiations. i think there's a real opportunity now with the protocol as a window of opportunity to move forward, and the uk and the eu have obviously edged closer together. the question now is whether the prime minister is strong enough to get it

through his own backbenchers, and what i've said is, or northern ireland the national interest comes first, so we will put party politics to one side, we will vote with the government if there is a deal to vote for, and so the prime minister doesn't have two rely on his backbenchers. you know, we in the labour party are putting country first and party second. i'm inviting the prime ministers to do the same thing. country first, party second. analysis by the bbc has revealed that britain's local bus network has shrunk by nearly 19 % in the decade to march last year. according to the department for transport figures, hertfordshire and leicestershire saw the biggest cuts in services in england. operators say they have had to close some routes because of falling passenger numbers and rising prices. here's our transport correspondent, katy austin. the only bus that stops in the leicestershire village of stapleton is the 159.

hello. john catches it most days to the nearest town of hinckley for things like shopping. i've got my phone if you need me. 0k. catch you later, then. in two weeks' time, the 159 is being axed. i, like probably many more people, will be lost when it's gone. devastated. i'm a 24/7 carer and it's nice to think, i want to get out for an hour — i can go and get the bus, go downtown even if i don't want to buy anything. the point is it's taking independence away from a lot of people. in hinckley, we also found passengers angry at the decision. there is people like me, that do rely on a bus still, that don't drive. i don't want to have to have a car, but i'm having to consider it. - the bus operator says it can't continue this particular route because council subsidy has been withdrawn. we are currently subsidising that bus to the tune of £162,000 per year. passenger numbers have not got back to where they was, and our council funds are very low

and we're struggling. the council will offer an alternative bookable form of transport for essential trips, but it won't be a like—for—like replacement. over the five years to last march, leicestershire's bus network saw one of england's highest percentage falls — about 50%. but up and down the country, people are finding their service has disappeared or reduced. the 128 bus through north yorkshire — a commercially funded route — now only runs every two hours, and misses out the village of ruston. so the older residents are having to walk up through the village — and it's a very steep hill — down the main road, which is a really fast—moving road, to the bus stop carrying their shopping. the bus companies say they're still getting fewer passengers than before the pandemic, and they've had to cope with rising costs. i'm going to get on this bus to speak to the man who runs one operator here in yorkshire. hello, ben. hi.

how are you doing? fine. how are you? yeah, all good, thanks. it is very much about money. ultimately, we are a labour—intensive business. for the last two years we've increased our driver wages by 25% in order to remain competitive. our utilities costs have gone up — so gas and electric, like they have for everybody — as well as parts for repairing vehicles. and we're expecting our fuel costs to go up as we go further into this year, as well. he says this reduced route is now covering its costs. the department for transport said it had now invested more than £2 billion in supporting the industry since the pandemic began, and extended a temporary £2 cap on single fares across england until the end ofjune. along the 128 route is pickering, where residents are fighting to keep another bus — the 840. there's a possibility it might go. what would that mean for you? i'd have to quit myjob. because i don't drive, so i've no other transport. i've got a job to try and, you know, gain the money for driving lessons, but everything's just gone up so much.

north yorkshire county council hopes this route can be saved. many people around the country have watched their bus depart for the last time. katie austin, bbc news. the red carpet was rolled out in london last night for the bafta awards. the big winners included the banshees of inisherin, elvis and a record—breaking seven prizes for the unflinching first world war film, all quiet on the western front. our culture and media editor katie razzall was there. the glitziest night of the british film calendar and with the royal seal of approval, where silver and shimmer ruled the red carpet and the talent came to london to celebrate and be celebrated, sometimes with tears, often with autographs. cate blanchett has been the bookies' favourite for best actress from the off. but what of the irish contingent? would the banshees of inisherin and their film about a friendship gone wrong win the hearts

of bafta voters? now, if i've done something to you, just tell me what i've done to you. but you didn't do anything to me. the rift takes the film to very dark places. you liked me yesterday! the banshees of inisherin. last night it was named outstanding british film to the joy and amusement of its writer and director. i know every irish person in the cast and crew were kind of going, "best what award?" but... kerry condon. the film's supporting actors cleaned up, too. in an awkward moment, kerry condon picked up her award after the wrong person was initially announced. barry keoghan! best supporting actor went to her co—star, an actor who spent time in care as a child. also, for the kids that are dreaming to be something from the area that i came from, this is for yous. austin butler won best actor for his hip—swinging beat—perfect turn as elvis. cate blanchett. and cate blanchett

joined the all—white acting category winners. her third best actress bafta — this for the film tar. every year, these idiosyncratic, remarkable performances just break down the myth that women's experience is monolithic. but the night belonged to one film — netflix's all quiet on the western front — an epic in german that lays bare the horrors of war. all quiet on the western front. seven baftas, including the top awards for best director and best film. all quiet on the western front tells a story of young men who, poisoned by right—wing political nationalist propaganda, go to war thinking it's an adventure. and war is anything but an adventure. a sobering thought that reflects the times we live in. katie razzall, bbc news.

more headlines that 1pm, that's it from me. now it's time for a look at the weather with helen. once we clear the reign amid weak, or turn about down to the february average. even with the mild air, there's an awful lot of cloud with us today, this weather front to the nose giving us significant reigns over the western highlands of it it is blowing again across shetland, brighter release for the north mainland the northern isles, just the odd shower elsewhere, to the south of the weather front there is a lot of cloud, just around the hills on the coast the west and the best chance of brightness will be in that is, that as i will see the highest

temperatures, across the board there will be several degrees up on where they should be for the sun of year, cloud not going anywhere overnight, but with enough reason cloud temperatures not for much below 5 or 6 degrees, so it stays mild for the moment, a lot of cloud, lots of dry weather, drizzle on the coast in the hills and resting areas, something more significant tomorrow before the pushers went to the western isles later, temperatures may get again to 14 later, temperatures may get again to 1a of later, temperatures may get again to 14 of 15, later, temperatures may get again to 1a of 15, but they will be just generally a lot of dry, cloudy weather, is the weather front rooster into wednesday, we noticed a change in wind directions, instead of southerly or south—westerly we get a north—westerly borrowing in, so cherry feels to the day on wednesday, but once the weather frankly is out of the way, it could drag its heels in the south—east,

but temperatures tapered down a little bit, 8-10, that but temperatures tapered down a little bit, 8—10, that breeze factor as well, so it will feel cooler, sunshine, more sunshine around amazing today, and are due tomorrow. the ridge of high pressure builds in, because such a thursday morning, across potentially first thing, quite a difference. just the chance for a few wintry showers, hail and rain are perhaps a little bit of sleep pushing down the east coast, more emphasis into the nose later, as you can see for many of us the temperatures of double by the end of the week, more sunshine in place of it.

today at one — we're live in ukraine, where presidentjoe biden, has made an extraordinary and hugely symbolic trip, to the capital kyiv. sirens wail. air raid sirens sounded during the visit, shrouded in secrecy, but meticulously planned, for weeks. president biden, commended the bravery of the ukrainian people, and stressed the unity of the international alliance against russia. kyiv stands, and ukraine stands, democracy stands, the americans stand with you in the world stands with you.

and the other main headlines this lunchtime.