The UK Secretary of State for Defence, John Healey, has expressed his ambition to be the first head of the ministry to send British troops to Ukraine, signaling a potential end to the ongoing conflict. He stated that this move would represent a significant step towards achieving peace in the region.
As the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion approaches, Healey emphasized that 2026 should mark the conclusion of the war. He remarked, “I want to be the Defence Minister who sends British troops to Ukraine because it will mean that this war is finally over. It will mean that we have achieved peace through negotiations. A secure Europe requires a strong, sovereign Ukraine.”
The UK government, in collaboration with its allies, is working on establishing a so-called “Coalition of the Willing.” This initiative aims to create multinational peacekeeping forces to ensure Ukraine’s security against potential future aggression from Russia once the war concludes.
Last month, during a meeting in Paris, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak signed a declaration with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron, outlining the intention to deploy British troops following the establishment of peace. A headquarters comprising 70 personnel has already been set up to facilitate this effort.
In addition, Healey announced a £200 million funding package aimed at preparing the British Armed Forces for potential involvement in this multinational mission. The funds will be allocated for upgrading equipment, enhancing communication systems, and acquiring counter-drone technologies.
Furthermore, the UK is assisting Ukraine in developing a new drone interception system utilizing artificial intelligence to counteract Iranian-made Shahed drones. This project, named Octopus, is designed to bolster Ukraine’s capabilities against large-scale enemy attacks.
UK Defense Minister John Healey aims to send troops to Ukraine following a peace agreement, marking a significant step towards ending the conflict. The UK government is also establishing a multinational peacekeeping coalition and investing in military preparedness.