The UK Ministry of Defence is contemplating the possibility of deploying British troops to Ukraine to assist in training its armed forces, as the war with Russia enters a critical phase.
Defence Secretary John Healey has recently visited Kyiv, where he discussed further support measures for Ukraine, although he refrained from providing specific details about potential troop deployments.
Currently, the UK is contributing to Ukraine’s military efforts by training Ukrainian soldiers on British soil. Additionally, a small team of British Army medics is operating in Ukraine, offering medical training.
However, this new proposal to send UK troops into Ukraine for training purposes marks a significant escalation in British involvement.
While no decision has been made, defence sources indicate that the option of sending British troops to Ukraine is being seriously considered.
In his visit to Kyiv, Healey emphasized the UK’s commitment to Ukraine, including an additional £225 million of military support.
This package will provide Ukraine with more drones, artillery shells, and air defence systems to enhance its ability to counter Russian advances.
Healey also stressed the importance of preparing Ukraine for the challenges ahead in 2025, which includes additional weapons, training, and imposing further sanctions on Russia.
The UK, alongside other NATO members, has so far avoided sending troops into Ukraine, largely due to concerns over being drawn into direct conflict with Russia. Instead, Western nations have focused on providing military equipment and intelligence support.
A no-fly zone, which some have advocated for, has also been ruled out for similar reasons. Nonetheless, the UK’s role in training Ukrainian forces has been a significant aspect of its contribution to the war effort, and now British officials are considering how to deepen that involvement without directly engaging in combat operations.
Healey was tight-lipped about the specifics of his discussions with Ukrainian officials, particularly regarding the deployment of UK forces.
Speaking to the BBC, he said, “The detail of our joint Ukrainian plan will have to remain, let’s say, unavailable to [Russian] President [Vladimir] Putin,” hinting at the sensitive nature of the discussions.
The Defence Secretary added that while he would monitor the plans of incoming US President Donald Trump, the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine remains steadfast.
Ahead of an upcoming meeting in Brussels with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Foreign Secretary David Lammy reiterated the importance of continued European and NATO support for Ukraine.
He highlighted the necessity of providing not only military training and equipment but also long-term financial assistance to ensure Ukraine’s continued resilience.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also reaffirmed the UK’s position during a phone call with Trump on Wednesday.
A Downing Street spokesperson noted that Starmer had underscored the importance of European allies standing firm with Ukraine to ensure it is well-prepared for the ongoing conflict.
As the war rages on, the UK’s role in supporting Ukraine is evolving, with potential troop deployment remaining a key issue.
The coming months may see further shifts in the nature of British assistance, as Ukraine faces one of the most critical periods of its struggle against Russian aggression.
