UK and European peacekeepers in Ukraine would be allowed to fire back at Russians
British troops and their European allies would be permitted to return fire if attacked by Russians when potentially stationed as peacekeepers in Ukraine after a ceasefire, western officials confirmed.
The multinational force, led by Britain and France, would also not rely on American technology such as Elon Musk's Starlink satellites, officials emphasized. The announcement comes as the UK and France prepare Exercise Koalicja, an 11-country military rehearsal set to take place later this month in Poland.
The exercise will test how European militaries could rapidly deploy to Ukraine if the war concludes, involving 2,800 soldiers, sailors, and aviators. France is contributing 1,500 troops from its 1st Division, while Britain is sending 300 from the 7th Light Mechanised Brigade.
Independent European Force
Lt Gen Tom Bateman, the commander of the force, stressed that the operation would be non-NATO and expected to have minimal to no US support if deployed. Clearly we will protect our forces against any aggression, an official familiar with the plans stated, though they emphasized that western troops would engage in a manner that was defensive in nature.
We are not dependent on US systems
Security Guarantees
The British general highlighted that the force's purpose would be to provide robust and binding security guarantees for Ukraine following a cessation of hostilities. The exercise aims to demonstrate military preparedness, rapid deployment capabilities and ability to operate effectively, testing plans developed over the past year.
Other participating countries include Poland, Germany, Belgium, Estonia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and Turkey. The force would focus on helping Ukraine regenerate and strengthen its military while operating away from the front lines, though rules of engagement would permit defense against Russian drone attacks.
US Reliability Concerns
The plans come amid international concerns about US commitment to allies. Last month, the US restricted Ukraine's use of Starlink's military variant, Starshield, for about 10 days, affecting medium-range drone missions. President Donald Trump has stated he would not commit American forces to peacekeeping in Ukraine.
Additional tasks for the multinational force could include helping reopen Ukraine's commercial airports through fighter jet patrols and clearing mines in the Black Sea to resume grain exports and maritime trade, with Turkey leading this operation. Fresh peace efforts this autumn have shown little progress, though three-way talks brokered by the US are planned for later this month.
Related
