UK Ready to Deploy Troops in Ukraine for Years to Deter Russia, PM Starmer Says

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has signaled Britain’s willingness to send troops to Ukraine for a long-term mission aimed at securing a potential ceasefire and deterring future Russian aggression, The Times reported on March 17.

A UK government source revealed that the British-led deployment would be open-ended, with no set deadline.

“This will be a long-term commitment—we’re talking years. As long as it takes to uphold a peace deal and keep Russia in check,” the source told the outlet.

Defense leaders from the so-called “Coalition of the Willing” will meet in London on Thursday to discuss detailed plans for stationing peacekeeping forces.

The proposal, reportedly under discussion among around a dozen nations—including the UK, France, Turkey, Canada, and Australia—could see up to 30,000 troops deployed to Ukraine. Other countries have pledged logistical and military support.

However, a question regarding their authority to fire on Russian forces if attacked remains open.

The “rules of engagement” are expected to be debated in the coming days, according to the report.

The plan envisions an initial “air and naval ceasefire” to allow for the clear detection of any Russian violations. This would then be followed by a full cessation of hostilities and, ultimately, the introduction of an international peacekeeping force on Ukrainian soil.

Earlier, Starmer outlined plans for a Western foreign contingent as part of peace and security guarantees of more than 10,000 troops for Ukraine.

During a videoconference with EU and NATO leaders, Starmer reportedly secured backing from a significantly larger number of countries than the initial three that first proposed deploying ground troops. However, the UK and France expect to provide the bulk of the force.