At the same time, there is currently no immediate reason for troop deployment, the PM said in an interview with Sky News.
When asked whether the UK would participate in Ukraine peace talks, including potentially deploying British troops for peacekeeping, the PM confirmed the UK government is ready to do its part.
“I don't want to get ahead of things, but I've made it clear that we will fully play our part — because this is not just about Ukraine's sovereignty,” said Starmer.
He noted that the consequences of Russian aggression could significantly impact the UK, its values, freedom, and democracy. A Russian victory in Ukraine, according to the PM, would present new security threats to Europe and the world.
Earlier on Jan. 16, Starmer arrived in Kyiv with his first visit since taking office in July 2024. He and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a 100-year partnership agreement, formalizing UK’s commitment to providing long-term security assistance to Ukraine.
Discussions about sending troops to Ukraine resumed in November 2024, following Donald Trump’s election victory.
On Dec. 3, 2024, RFE/RL, citing an unnamed high-ranking NATO official, reported that France and the United Kingdom are discussing possible security guarantees for Ukraine in the event of peace talks with Russia. One option includes deploying troops from both countries along the demarcation line to enforce a potential ceasefire.
According to Reuters, European Union countries may send up to 100,000 troops to Ukraine for a peacekeeping mission if a ceasefire is reached.