The United Kingdom is weighing the possibility of deploying troops to Ukraine for a five-year mission, according to discussions among allied nations reported by The Telegraph.
Military officials backing the idea believe the deployment would play a vital role in rebuilding and training the Ukrainian army, aiming to strengthen its defenses and help prevent future Russian aggression.
The proposal emerged during talks between the UK and France under the umbrella of the so-called “coalition of the willing.” One option being considered involves dispatching European-led forces to Ukraine to act as a deterrent against any potential Russian violation of a future peace agreement, while also giving Ukrainian troops a chance to regroup.
French military planners have reportedly argued that it is improbable Russian President Vladimir Putin would attempt to attack Western forces stationed in Ukraine, especially given the current limitations of his military, which is struggling to make significant territorial gains.
Under the suggested plan, “stabilization forces” spearheaded by France and the UK would also help safeguard Ukraine’s airspace and maritime borders.
However, the chief objective remains to assist in the immediate training and reconstruction of Ukraine’s military forces. A phased withdrawal of the troops would follow, with full withdrawal anticipated within five years, according to The Telegraph.
After chairing a meeting involving representatives from 30 nations, UK Defense Secretary John Healey remarked that he would not reveal specifics of the proposals being discussed, as doing so would “only make Putin wiser.”
