The UK is prepared to send troops to Ukraine to help secure its skies and seas but will not deploy forces to fight on the frontline against Russia, Britain’s top military official will confirm during talks in Washington.
Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, Chief of the Defence Staff, will attend high-level Pentagon meetings on Wednesday alongside military chiefs from 30 countries to finalise security guarantees for Ukraine as planning intensifies for a postwar settlement.
UK to Provide Logistical and Training Support
Radakin is expected to confirm that Britain will contribute soldiers for logistical operations, training, and protecting Ukrainian airspace and ports. However, the UK will not commit combat troops near Russian positions.
Officials had previously considered deploying up to 30,000 troops to safeguard Ukrainian infrastructure, but the proposal was scaled back amid European concerns. Defence Secretary John Healey has already pledged UK forces will help ensure “safe skies, safe seas” and strengthen Ukraine’s armed forces.
US and Allies Discuss Security Guarantees
The Pentagon meetings follow US President Donald Trump’s assurance on Monday that Washington would provide security guarantees to Ukraine, though without deploying American troops on the ground. His envoy, Steve Witkoff, described the commitments as potentially “article-5 like,” referencing NATO’s mutual defence clause.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer briefed more than 30 world leaders on Tuesday, outlining plans for a coalition force that could be deployed if hostilities end. Downing Street said the UK and allies are working with US counterparts to “deliver robust security guarantees” and prepare for a reassurance force in a postwar environment.
Ukraine Pushes for Swift Guarantees
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said he expects the guarantees to be finalised within 10 days. However, some analysts warn Russia’s President Vladimir Putin is unlikely to accept any NATO troop presence in Ukraine, even in limited support roles.
British officials insist the UK is making serious preparations, stressing the significance of 30 military chiefs gathering at the Pentagon. “You don’t get 30 chiefs of staff coming to the Pentagon if they are not serious about this,” one official said.
