British and French paratroopers have completed preparations for a possible peacekeeping mission in Ukraine, according to a report by The Telegraph. More than 600 soldiers from the UK’s 16 Air Assault Brigade conducted a simulated airborne raid during exercises held in Brittany, France. The drills were carried out alongside troops from the 11th Parachute Brigade, reflecting deepening military coordination between London and Paris.

The exercises were designed to test rapid-deployment capabilities and operational coordination amid discussions of a potential Ukraine ceasefire agreement. The military drills followed an announcement by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who stated that the UK and France would lead peacekeeping forces in Ukraine if a ceasefire agreement were reached between Moscow and Kiev.

Although the specific units earmarked for a potential deployment have not been officially confirmed, the 16 Air Assault Brigade is part of Britain’s high-readiness forces and can deploy to NATO operations at short notice.

Paris 'coalition of the willing' meeting

On January 6, a high-level "coalition of the willing" meeting was held in Paris to discuss what were described as security guarantees for Ukraine.

Speaking after the meeting, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the declaration plans for the deployment of forces to Ukraine should a peace deal be reached. He described the move as part of what he called an “ironclad commitment” to long-term support for Ukraine, adding that the agreement lays the groundwork for a legal framework allowing British, French, and partner forces to operate on Ukrainian territory, including securing airspace and maritime routes and rebuilding Ukraine’s armed forces.

Starmer also said the United Kingdom and France would establish military bases across Ukraine and construct protected depots for weapons and equipment following any ceasefire. 

He said the plans include the creation of military hubs throughout Ukraine to support its defensive needs, adding that coalition partners had agreed on further steps, including participation in US-led monitoring and verification of a ceasefire, long-term provision of arms for Ukraine, and work toward binding commitments to support Ukraine in the event of a future armed attack by Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has rejected the prospect of a foreign military presence in Ukraine following any potential peace settlement, stating that there would be no justification for such deployment after an agreement on sustainable peace is reached.

The Russian leader further warned that Moscow would consider any foreign troops stationed on Ukrainian territory as legitimate targets.