UK Prepared to Deploy Troops in Ukraine Amid Rising Tensions
Defense Minister John Healy stated that the United Kingdom is ready to deploy its forces in Ukraine to reinforce a ceasefire agreement, contingent upon the outcomes of the upcoming meeting in Alaska between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, reports 24brussels.
Healy emphasized that the meeting could represent a pivotal step towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Ukraine. He further noted that the British government is prepared to “strengthen economic sanctions and pressure on Putin” if he does not engage seriously during the talks.
In response to a journalist’s question regarding Britain’s role as merely “monitoring and waiting,” Healy clarified that the UK aims to “stand alongside Ukraine on the battlefield and in negotiations,” ready to lead a coalition of 30 other nations committed to securing a ceasefire and a safe peace.
He elaborated that over 200 military planners from this coalition have been working diligently over the past few months on detailed plans leading up to a potential ceasefire. According to Healy, multinational forces “are ready to act from day one,” with the planning already completed.
“We are prepared to position British troops in Ukraine, partly to reassure Ukrainians. But also to ensure a safe sky, safe seas, and to strengthen Ukrainian forces, as ultimately, the best deterrent against Russia’s resumption of aggression against Ukraine is Ukraine’s own strength to defend itself,” the British minister stated.
When asked what would happen if Russia attacked British forces in Ukraine, Healy declined to discuss hypothetical scenarios but emphasized that there are “important principles” and that British troops would have the “right to defend themselves in the event of an attack.”
