Thu Dec 19 13:35:56 UTC 2024: ## UK Considers Sending Troops to Train Ukrainian Forces

**London, December 19, 2024** – The United Kingdom is considering deploying troops to Ukraine to train Ukrainian soldiers, UK Defence Secretary John Healey has revealed. Currently, the UK only has a medical team in Ukraine and has been training Ukrainian forces on British soil since 2022. This potential deployment comes as European nations strive to bolster Ukraine’s position ahead of any potential negotiations with Russia to end the ongoing war.

Healey, speaking en route to Kyiv on Wednesday, stated that the UK would need to adapt its training program to better meet Ukraine’s specific needs. He emphasized that Ukraine’s requirements would guide any decision. Western nations have provided Ukraine with substantial financial, military, and intelligence support but have refrained from sending combat troops to avoid direct involvement in the conflict.

Healey’s comments follow a phone call between UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and US President-elect Donald Trump. Starmer reportedly stressed the need for allied unity in supporting Ukraine and ensuring its strength. This contrasts with Trump’s previous statements suggesting potential US withdrawal from NATO and reduced aid to Ukraine, as well as his call for an immediate ceasefire.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte echoed the sentiment of strengthening Ukraine before negotiations, reiterating this message during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Brussels. Several European countries share this goal.

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