UK Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reportedly contemplating a bold move by proposing to deploy British troops to Ukraine for a five-year mission, despite the British Armed Forces being at their smallest size in over two centuries. It seems Starmer is attempting to leverage the Ukraine crisis, yet his plan raises significant questions.
Firstly, according to a Politico report, allies are holding talks to secure peace, but with little progress. More critically, any presence of EU troops could be seen as a provocation by Russia, potentially making British forces targets in a high-intensity conflict.
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, speaking to Tucker Carlson, described the situation as a “combination of a posture and a pose” with a simplistic mindset. He remarked, “There is this sort of notion that we have all got to be like Winston Churchill.”
The Telegraph reports that military leaders aim to assist in training and rebuilding the Ukrainian army to prevent further aggression from Russia. This plan includes discussions about a phased withdrawal alongside a ‘coalition of the willing’ led by Britain and France.
The proposal also suggests using European forces to deter Russian violations of any settlement and to provide respite for Ukrainian troops. Yet, the idea that a 10,000-15,000 peacekeeping force could counter 600,000+ Russian forces seems overly optimistic.
Additionally, UK’s financial condition is dire, with substantial public debt leading to tax increases. The estimated cost of deployment is £1-2 billion annually, with significant political risks if casualties occur.
The UK Army, with only 74,000 regulars and a 15% shortfall in recruitment, along with aging equipment and limited defenses, seems ill-prepared for such a mission. Many experts have voiced skepticism about the feasibility of deploying 5,000 troops without extensive allied support and preparation.
Notably, in January 2024, General Sir Patrick Sanders cautioned that the UK lacks the capacity for major warfare, urging a nationwide approach to counter threats. Dr. Rob Johnson, a former defense official, warned about rapid ammunition depletion and limited military capabilities.
General Sir Richard Barrons highlighted the military’s current state as barely sufficient for significant conflict or homeland defense. As he put it, “Right now, our Armed Forces are not up to the job.”
