Britain is spending $270 million preparing for a scenario involving the deployment of troops to Ukraine.
The United Kingdom has just announced a budget of £200 million (equivalent to $270 million) to fund preparations for deploying troops to Ukraine, as London commits to participating in a multinational peacekeeping force in the country if a ceasefire agreement is reached.
According to Reuters, this announcement came shortly after British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed on a joint statement on January 6th.
At the summit of Ukraine's allies, leaders outlined plans for a potential future military presence to ensure Kyiv's security.
During his visit to Kyiv on January 9th, British Defence Minister John Healey stated that the budget would focus on upgrading vehicles, communications systems, and anti-drone technology. The funds would also be used to ensure British soldiers are always in the highest state of readiness for deployment.
Britain's move comes amid escalating tensions, just hours after Russia launched a powerful hypersonic missile. Ukraine's European allies view this as an attempt by Moscow to exert pressure and prevent the West from continuing to support Kyiv.
Regarding the Multinational Force for Ukraine (MNFU), while President Macron has left open the possibility of France sending thousands of troops to reinforce security commitments, the UK has not yet announced a specific number of troops. Prime Minister Starmer said that London's detailed plans are still being finalized.
Speaking about the new budget allocation, Minister Healey stressed that it demonstrates the British government's significant "increased investment" in scenarios to support Ukraine.
"This capital expenditure, drawn from core defense funds, sends a clear signal to allies and adversaries about the UK's intention to lead the MNFU and fulfill its promise to protect peace in Ukraine," the UK Ministry of Defence stated in a press release.
During his meeting with President Zelensky, Mr. Healey also announced that production of the "Octopus" interceptor drone would begin this January. This weapon system is based on a Ukrainian design but is manufactured in the UK. London plans to deliver thousands of units per month to help Ukraine strengthen its defenses against Russian drone attacks.
