British troops poised for long-term peacekeeping in ukraine
The British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, is prepared to deploy thousands of British soldiers to Ukraine. These troops from the UK are expected to remain on Ukrainian territory for years if necessary. The forces aim to maintain the ceasefire and counteract any further Russian invasion, reports the British newspaper "The Times".
On Thursday, a meeting will be held in London with defence chiefs from the so-called coalition of the willing, which includes countries prepared to send their soldiers to Ukraine. Details regarding the deployment of peacekeeping forces will be discussed during the meeting.
Plans include sending up to 30,000 soldiers from several countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Turkey, Canada, and Australia. Other countries are willing to assist with weapons and logistics, reports "The Times".
The "Coalition of the Willing" plans actions: Armies ready to protect peace in Ukraine
According to the newspaper, the Prime Minister has so far declined to answer whether these soldiers will be authorised to open fire against Russian soldiers in the event of an attack. The "rules of engagement" are likely to be discussed in the coming days.
Although many countries are ready to support Ukraine logistically and supply weapons, Starmer emphasised that the United Kingdom will not send troops without security guarantees from the USA. Former President Donald Trump has so far refused such a guarantee, suggesting that economic agreements with Ukraine might suffice to deter Russia.
An "air and sea" ceasefire is planned to be introduced, which will allow the monitoring of any violations by Russia. This would be followed by a full ceasefire covering ground forces. Western troops would only be sent after peace agreements are signed.
Russia has repeatedly emphasised that it will not accept the presence of peacekeeping forces in Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron stated that the decision to deploy troops in Ukraine belongs to Ukraine, not Russia.
During a press conference at Downing Street, Starmer stressed that "the world needs actions now" and that during talks involving Macron and President Zelensky, new commitments were made regarding maintaining peace and intensifying sanctions against Russia. The Prime Minister noted that Vladimir Putin will sooner or later have to negotiate.
