Camilla Jessen
The UK is shifting its approach in Ukraine.
Britain has dropped plans to send ground troops to Ukraine, deciding the risks are too high, The Times reported on Wednesday, citing sources familiar with the talks.
Instead, the UK will focus on sending military trainers to western Ukraine, along with French personnel, to support the country’s armed forces.
The revised strategy comes amid concerns that deploying a large ground force could escalate the conflict and risk widening the war if a ceasefire with Russia breaks down.
The trainers will operate away from active front lines and focus on instruction and support. They are not expected to be involved in combat.
The goal is to help Ukraine defend itself while avoiding direct military confrontation with Russia.
NATO countries, including the UK and France, are also looking at ways to strengthen Ukraine’s air and maritime security. This includes discussions about sending aircraft and naval forces to protect Ukraine’s territory and sovereignty.
Britain will continue supplying weapons to Ukraine and providing logistical support, according to the report. The shift marks a change from earlier ideas to send up to 30,000 troops to guard key Ukrainian infrastructure and cities.
A diplomatic source told The Times that the priority is to build a security framework that respects Ukraine’s conditions, while increasing pressure on Moscow to change its position.
Talks are ongoing over long-term security guarantees and territorial issues, especially involving the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and areas under Russian control.
The UK Ministry of Defence said planning is still underway to strengthen Ukraine’s defenses and support efforts to reach peace.
French President Emmanuel Macron also reaffirmed France’s support for Ukraine this week, saying U.S. anger should be directed at Russian President Vladimir Putin.