According to The Times, nearly 2,800 troops from Britain and eight other countries will participate in the "Koalicja" joint military exercise in Poland, practicing the potential deployment of troops to Ukraine following a ceasefire agreement between Russia and Ukraine. This multinational force in Ukraine (MNF-U), led by Britain and France, could be deployed within a month of the peace agreement, but the specific arrangements depend on political and military conditions. Western officials have stated that the troops deployed in Ukraine will be capable of self-defense and retaliation should an attack be launched. However, officials emphasized that this force is defensive and will not conduct offensive operations or monitor the ceasefire. Its mission includes assisting in the reconstruction and training of the Ukrainian army, providing equipment and logistical support, conducting joint patrols with Ukrainian aircraft, and assisting in mine clearance in the Black Sea and ensuring the security of trade shipping. Britain will send approximately 300 personnel to the exercise, including soldiers from the 7th Light Mechanized Brigade of the British Army and personnel from the Royal Air Force. The report also noted that this force will not rely on weapons or technology provided by the United States. However, critics worry that deploying troops to Ukraine could draw Britain into a larger conflict with Russia.
