British Troops to Fire Back if Attacked by Russian Forces

British troops deployed as part of a proposed multinational mission to secure a future peace in Ukraine will be allowed to return fire if attacked by Russian forces, Western officials have said.

The plan highlights the risk of direct confrontation between the UK and Russia as Britain and France lead preparations for the proposed Multinational Force-Ukraine (MNF-U).

However, the deployment depends on an end to Russia’s war in Ukraine and the establishment of a peace agreement between Kyiv and Moscow. Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly rejected the idea of NATO troops operating in Ukraine.

Despite the uncertainty, London and Paris are continuing preparations for the potential mission.

Around 300 British troops and more than 2,000 soldiers from 10 partner nations are due to take part in a nearly two-week military exercise in Poland, beginning on Monday.

Dubbed Exercise Koalicja, the training will prepare participating forces for possible roles in a future operation.

The exercise will cover several areas, including air security, maritime safety and the rebuilding of Ukraine’s military strength.

Fast jets will practise helping to secure Ukrainian airspace, with the aim of supporting the eventual return of commercial flights. Ukraine’s airports have remained closed to civilian traffic since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.

At sea, Turkish demining warships will help improve the safety of maritime routes for commercial vessels.

Land forces will focus on training Ukrainian troops and rebuilding the country’s military capabilities. Ukrainian soldiers are also expected to share their battlefield experience with British, French and other European forces.

Other participating countries include Belgium, Estonia, Germany, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden and Turkey.

The United States will not take part in the exercise or the multinational force, although separate American security guarantees are expected to be an important part of any credible peace agreement.

A Western official said the force would not rely on US communications or other systems during the Polish exercise, highlighting efforts by European allies to develop independent operational capabilities.

The UK Ministry of Defence said the training would test how to move, protect and supply a force tasked with helping rebuild Ukraine’s armed forces after the fighting ends.

British personnel will include soldiers from the Army’s 7 Brigade, also known as the Desert Rats.

Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said the exercise demonstrated Britain’s commitment to preparing for peace in Ukraine alongside France and other allies.

He described the plan as a real force being prepared to support Ukraine once the fighting stops.