Reports 30,000 EU troops could be sent to Ukraine, but Western officials cast doubt
Western officials have cast doubt over reports that as many as 30,000 troops from Europe could be sent to Ukraine if a ceasefire deal is reached with Russia.
Responding to the reports, they described that number as being on the "relatively high side", saying the purpose of the force would be around "reassurance".
They said it would be "rather odd" on the basis of a ceasefire that you then start to put in place something that could lead to a direct conflict between Western forces and Russia.
Any plans could see European-led troops deployed to Ukrainian cities, ports and other critical infrastructure sites.
They didn't specify how many troops would be sent but revealed what that force might do in practice.
Officials said the conversations were being led by the UK and France, suggesting support would be heavily focused in the air and maritime spaces.
There might be a task force on clearing up mines in the Black Sea and another which would have a patrol presence.
Plans also being looked at would see the monitoring of Ukrainian air space to keep that safe and reassure the Ukrainian people, something they hope would encourage those who have fled the country to return.
It comes after Ed Arnold, a senior research fellow in European security at the Royal United Services Institute, told BFBS Forces News the UK would struggle to send troops to Ukraine.
He said if European and British personnel are to operate on the ground in Ukraine, they would have to act as a deterrent to Russia, otherwise they would merely be "hollow" and targetable by Moscow.
Throughout an interview with BFBS Forces News, Mr Arnold continuously stated that it is still unclear what the requirement for European forces in Ukraine would be.
It follows news that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said he was willing to put troops on the ground in Ukraine.
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