The presidents of both countries are planning a meeting in Budapest, Hungary, which is to be held without the participation of Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky. Nevertheless, Zelensky expressed his readiness to join the talks. Healey emphasized that a possible military deployment will be possible if Trump manages to negotiate peace. He also pointed out that the final decisions regarding negotiations should rest with Ukrainians.
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Coalition of the willing and plans to secure the border of Ukraine
The Defense Secretary revealed that members of the “coalition of the willing”, consisting of 26 European countries, They have been working on detailed plans for a ceasefire for months. Over the past six months, Healey said, more than 200 military planners from 38 countries have been preparing for the potential deployment. British troops could join a multinational force that would be tasked with securing Ukraine's border.
The British government plans to allocate over 100 million pounds for this operation, some of which has already been used for preparations.. Healey, speaking at the annual Mayor of London Lecture, noted Vladimir Putin's perception of Britain as “enemy number one” because of its support for Ukraine.
See also: A NATO ally offers Ukraine a way around its biggest weapons production problems
New threats and powers for British soldiers
Healey warned of an increase in the risk of conflict in Europe, which is the largest since the end of World War II. In response to new threats, British soldiers will be authorized to shoot down drones that pose a threat to military bases. Last year, four air bases in the UK reported mysterious drone sightings, and drones have repeatedly disrupted European airspace in recent months.
The new powers will cover military facilities but could be extended to civilian locations such as airports.
