How ready is the UK to send troops to Ukraine? Join The Independent Debate

A.As Prime Minister Keir Starmer signs a historic agreement to deploy British troops to Ukraine in the event of a peace deal with Russia, questions are growing about whether the UK is ready to make such a commitment.

Sir Richard Shirreff, NATO’s former deputy commander, cautiously welcomed the commitment but stressed that any UK deployment must “have the right numbers, means and appropriate capabilities”.

He told LBC this week: “There will be no peace until Russia is forced out. There is at least a clear plan now to provide a reassurance force or sanction force from France and the UK.”

Other experts also warned that the deployment of 10,000 troops could strain the Regular Army, RAF and Royal Navy, and that much larger numbers would be needed to make a real impact on the ground.

Reform leader Nigel Farage mocked the remark, asking: “With what boots? What jersey?” and warned that the UK could remain in existence for a few weeks at most.

But supporters argue that despite these limitations, UK forces are highly capable and a well-equipped contingent could provide vital reassurance to Ukraine and its NATO allies.

Defense spending is expected to increase in the coming years, with ongoing modernization programs and recruitment campaigns aimed at strengthening the armed forces.

But with military commitments, global threats and domestic defense needs all vying for attention, the debate over whether Britain should field troops is anything but simple.

Should the UK keep its promise to Ukraine, or are there limits to what its armed forces can realistically achieve?

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