John Healey has stated that Britain must assist Ukraine in “motivating and mobilizing more recruits” and has pledged a £225 million support package.
The Defence Secretary has suggested the possibility of British troops being deployed to Ukraine to help train Ukrainian soldiers. During a visit to Kyiv, Healey emphasized the need to tailor training to better meet Ukraine’s specific needs. He told The Times, “We need to make it easier for the Ukrainians to access training and collaborate with them to help motivate and mobilize more recruits.”
When asked if this would involve extending UK-based training to Ukraine, Healey responded, “We will explore every opportunity to support what the Ukrainians need. They are the ones fighting.”
This proposal follows similar comments from former Defence Secretary Grant Shapps last year, and Healey is believed to be the first senior government figure to publicly suggest it.
His remarks coincided with the announcement of a £225 million support package for Ukraine, amid mounting pressure on the country to enter peace talks with Russia. Meanwhile, during his re-election campaign, Donald Trump vowed to end the war on his first day in office, and JD Vance, the incoming vice president, has suggested Ukraine should give up territory to Russia in return for peace.
