UK's Starmer prepares troop deployment to uphold Ukrainian peace
The British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, is prepared to deploy thousands of British soldiers to Ukraine. These troops are expected to remain in Ukrainian territories for as long as necessary to maintain a ceasefire and prevent another 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, comprising countries prepared to send their soldiers to Ukraine. Details regarding the deployment of peacekeeping forces will be discussed during this meeting.
The plans include deploying 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, according to "The Times".
The "coalition of the willing" plans actions: Armies ready to protect peace in Ukraine
As the newspaper claims, the Prime Minister has so far declined to confirm whether these soldiers will be authorised to open fire against Russian forces in the event of an attack. It is expected that the rules of engagement will be discussed in the coming days.
Although many countries are ready to support Ukraine with logistics and military supplies, Starmer emphasised that the United Kingdom will not deploy troops without security guarantees from the USA. President Donald Trump has so far refused such assurances, proposing that economic agreements with Ukraine might suffice to deter Russia.
An "air and sea ceasefire" is planned to be introduced to monitor any violations by Russia, followed by a comprehensive ceasefire covering ground forces. Western troops would only be deployed 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 rests with Ukraine, not Russia.
During a press conference at Downing Street, Starmer stressed that "the world needs actions". In talks involving Macron and President Zelensky, new commitments were made regarding maintaining peace and intensifying sanctions against Russia. The Prime Minister noted that Putin will eventually have to negotiate.
