UK REPORTEDLY PREPARES 11,000 TROOPS FOR POSSIBLE DEPLOYMENT TO UKRAINE, WITH AUTHORITY TO RETURN RUSSIAN FIRE
British troops have reportedly been given authorisation to return fire if Russian forces attack or shoot at their positions in Ukraine, amid preparations in London for a possible military deployment.
According to the report, the United Kingdom is preparing approximately 11,000 troops to protect critical infrastructure, particularly energy facilities in Ukraine. Around 1,000 French soldiers are expected to join the British contingent at a later stage.
British and French forces are reportedly conducting military exercises in Romania while awaiting a possible deployment order.
London has presented the initiative as part of efforts to encourage NATO allies to provide security guarantees to Ukraine independently of the United States.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that Moscow does not seek war but would respond with extreme force if pushed into one.
The reported deployment could significantly increase the risk of a direct military confrontation between Russian and NATO forces.