The Ministry of Defence is keeping quiet in Parliament on the composition, size or participating nations of a proposed multinational force for Ukraine, citing operational security concerns.
In a series of written parliamentary questions, Conservative MP James Cartlidge sought clarification on which nations had agreed in principle to contribute personnel and assets to a proposed Multinational Force for Ukraine, following the publication of a Declaration of Intent between the UK, France and Ukraine on 7 January.
Questions submitted to the Ministry of Defence covered potential contributions of UK land, air and naval forces, the number of service personnel that might be required, the protection of proposed military hubs, and which partner nations may be involved in future deployments. Responding on behalf of the government, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence Al Carns said the Defence Secretary continues to hold regular discussions with Ukraine, France and other partners regarding security arrangements in the event of a cessation of hostilities.
In each response, the minister stated that while planning activity is ongoing, the government would not provide details on any potential deployment.
“Planning continues at pace, but we will not be drawn into the details of any future UK Armed Forces deployment, including its levels, composition, assets, and participating nations, due to the risk to operational security,” Carns said.
The repeated responses did not identify any countries that have agreed in principle to contribute personnel or equipment, nor did they outline potential ranges for UK force numbers or asset types. The Ministry of Defence reiterated that the government remains committed to ensuring the UK Armed Forces are prepared to respond to a range of challenges, including potential deployment to Ukraine, should circumstances require. The proposed Multinational Force is intended to support Ukraine’s defence, reconstruction and long-term strategic sustainability in the event of a future cessation of hostilities, as outlined in the January declaration.
Good! No need to talk aloud about all this right now in such exquisite detail with no “real peace” anywhere in sight in Ukraine. Any commitments given publicy are likely to rile Russia up further sending more drones and missiles into Ukraine. It’s a toughie to balance. Right now Ukraine needs more means to defend its airspace.
Yes, it’s a distraction from supporting Ukraine in the ongoing war. However, I don’t care how riled up Russia get. They are bound to get riled up if they are losing, and them losing is what we want. They are already sending the maximum number of drones and missiles they can into Ukraine. I don’t think getting them angrier by increasing Ukraine support will make things worse.
No peace deal so no peace keeping. Poooootin wont allow NATO to police any deal any how so this is all just Starmer and Macron trying to appear tough to Emperor Trump. Its pathetic.