UK reportedly prepares 11,000 troops for Ukraine
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Zambian Observer
The United Kingdom is reportedly preparing around 11,000 troops to protect critical infrastructure in Ukraine, with authorisation to return fire in the event of Russian attacks. One thousand French soldiers could join them after exercises in Romania, according to the Zambian Observer.
The United Kingdom is reportedly preparing around 11,000 troops for a possible mission in Ukraine to protect critical infrastructure, notably energy facilities, the Zambian Observer reports. The British troops have reportedly been authorised to return fire if Russian forces attack their positions.
Around 1,000 French soldiers could later join the British contingent. British and French forces are currently conducting military exercises in Romania while awaiting a possible deployment order, according to the Zambian newspaper.
London is reportedly presenting the initiative as a way of encouraging Nato members to provide security guarantees to Ukraine without US participation. Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Moscow was not seeking war, while warning that Russia would respond with extreme force if pushed into conflict, the Zambian Observer reports.
