Ukraine unhappy at Boris Johnson's resignation after support in Russia war
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson resigning is being lamented by Ukrainians after he supported the country in its war against Russia.
KYIV, Ukraine — Boris Johnson's reluctant resignation triggered relief from many in Britain. But more than 1,300 miles away in Ukraine, the mood could not be more different.
Seen as a scandal-ridden charlatan by some opponents in London, the outgoing British prime minister is adored in Kyiv for his vociferous support of the country — and the weapons the U.K. has supplied for its fight against Russia while he's been at the helm.
"Johnson quitting is a personal tragedy for me," said Olha Povaliaeva, 30, a project manager from the eastern city of Donetsk, a key battleground in the conflict. The prime minister has become "an older brother and a close friend who will always comfort, support and encourage" Ukraine, she added. "I’m sorry that this eminent person is going through such a difficult time right now."
That support extends from sidewalk to legislature. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called Johnson a "friend" Thursday and said "all Ukrainians were saddened by the news" that he would step down.
There is also a palpable nervousness about whether Johnson’s successor will be quite so bullish in their support.
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