A force of up to 30,000 troops had been discussed for deployment to guard key Ukrainian sites, but that plan is now off the table. “The risks are too high and the forces inadequate for such a task,” said a source familiar with the talks. The source told The Times, “This was always the UK’s thought. It was France who wanted a more muscular approach.”
British and French military trainers are expected to be deployed in western Ukraine, but not near active combat areas. “The trainers ‘reassure’ by being there but aren’t a deterrence or protection force,” the source added.
Aircraft would provide air cover, and Turkey would take on a maritime role under the likely plan. The UK and Europe would continue sending weapons to ensure Ukraine remains armed if Russia violates any future peace deal.
The UK also made clear it wants to maintain the ability to rearm Ukraine as part of any long-term security commitment. “Our problem now is to try and find a landing zone where Ukraine doesn’t have to break all its red lines,” said a diplomatic source.
Operation Interflex, the mission to train Ukrainian soldiers in the UK, is expected to stop by year’s end, with training moving closer to the Ukrainian city of Lviv. Still, Ukrainian officials are wary that Western forces might pull out again at the first sign of escalation.
Talks are ongoing, and officials hope a meeting between President Trump and President Zelensky—possibly after the Pope’s funeral—could help move negotiations forward. A UK official said the timing could offer “an obvious opportunity” to ease tensions.
A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said: “This is speculation… we’re continuing to support efforts for peace, while stepping up the military support for Ukraine as Putin’s illegal invasion continues.”
