Foreign Secretary Confirms UK Will Not Deploy Troops to Ukraine
The prime minister’s official spokesman reiterated that there are ‘no plans’ to deploy troops to Ukraine.
The UK’s foreign secretary, David Lammy, confirmed that troops will not be sent to Ukraine. In an interview with La Repubblica, Lammy stated, “There has been a long-standing position that we are not committing UK troops to the theatre of action.”
Lammy emphasized that this stance is consistent with the UK’s current position. He clarified that while UK troops will not be stationed in Ukraine, the UK will continue to support Ukraine with training and military aid for as long as necessary.
This statement followed reports from Le Monde suggesting that Paris and London are considering sending French and British troops and private security contractors to Ukraine.
The official spokesman for the prime minister also confirmed that there are no intentions to send troops to Ukraine. The UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine is evident by the commitment to provide training and military assistance without the direct deployment of troops.
Support for Ukraine
Lammy expressed the UK’s determination to support Ukraine through the winter and into 2025. He believes that with the G7 ERA loan and asset seizure funds in place, Ukraine will have the resources to sustain its fight.
The UK’s contribution to the G7 loan is £2.26 billion, complementing the existing £3 billion annual commitment in military aid and the £12.8 billion already pledged for military, economic, and humanitarian aid.
Lammy and France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, announced their countries’ willingness to provide essential support for Ukraine.
Tensions Increasing
Tensions have escalated recently with reports of Ukraine firing long-range missiles into Russia. President Putin warned that this action could be perceived as the West engaging in war with Russia.
President Biden reportedly authorized Ukraine to use long-range missiles against Russia, including British Storm Shadow missiles. Downing Street and Defense Minister John Healey have refrained from confirming the reports.
Lammy refused to comment on specific military equipment, stressing that providing details could inadvertently aid Putin tactically. The situation remains tense as Russia confirmed testing a new ballistic missile in response to Ukrainian strikes with Western missiles.
Briton Reportedly Captured
Reports emerged of a British man, identified as 22-year-old James Scott Rhys Anderson, being captured by Russian forces while volunteering in Ukraine. The UK government is ensuring all possible support for the detained individual and his family.
Video footage circulated online showing the man, a former British Army soldier, who had enlisted in Ukraine’s International Legion after losing his job. The Foreign Office confirmed support for the man’s family following news of his detention.
PA Media contributed to this report.
