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UK to Prioritize Military Training in Ukraine Over Ground Troop Presence, Says The Times

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Lucile Brizard
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UK to Prioritize Military Training in Ukraine Over Ground Troop Presence, Says The Times
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer visits a military base training Ukrainian troops on April 22, 2025. (Source: Getty Images)

The UK has decided to scale back plans to deploy ground troops to Ukraine, deeming the risks “too high,” sources familiar with the discussions confirmed on April 24, according to The Times.

The revised strategy now prioritizes the deployment of British and French military trainers to the West of Ukraine rather than a full-scale military presence.

This shift comes amid concerns that a larger ground force could escalate tensions and risks a broading the war if a ceasefire deal with Russia collapses, according to The Times.

The trainers will be stationed away from the front lines and will focus on supporting Ukraine’s military by training forces in areas outside active conflict zones.

This adjustment aims to reduce the potential for direct confrontation while still fulfilling commitments to assist Ukraine in its defense efforts. Ukrainian forces will continue to receive air and sea protection, with NATO partners considering the deployment of aircraft and maritime support to secure Ukraine’s sovereignty.

The redefined strategy also includes ongoing arms supplies to Ukraine, ensuring the country remains in a strong position should Russia violate any ceasefire agreement. The UK and France’s approach contrasts with earlier proposals to send up to 30,000 troops to secure key Ukrainian cities, ports, and infrastructure.

A diplomatic source told The Times that the priority now is to create a security arrangement that does not require Ukraine to abandon its “red lines” while still putting pressure on Moscow to adjust its stance.

Discussions continue to focus on negotiating security guarantees and territorial issues, particularly regarding the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant and Russia’s control of certain Ukrainian regions.

The UK Ministry of Defence emphasized that advanced operational planning is ongoing, with the goal of strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities and supporting peace efforts.

Earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron stated that American anger should be directed solely at Russian leader Vladimir Putin, reaffirming Paris’s continued support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

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