British troops will join French and German counterparts in a major NATO exercise in Poland next month, Defence Secretary Wes Streeting has announced. The drill is designed to ensure NATO forces are ready to provide security guarantees to Ukraine after its conflict with Russia ends.
Exercise aims to support Ukraine's post-war needs
Speaking to reporters in Washington DC during his inaugural visit to the US in his new capacity, Mr Streeting said the exercise would prepare forces to support military training and post-war rebuilding in Ukraine. He stated: "Ukraine is the front line for freedom everywhere, and it's absolutely vital that they prevail against Putin's aggression. We're planning for the peace and freedom we want to see through our leadership of the coalition of the willing."
Mr Streeting added: "Next month thousands of personnel will take part in a major exercise in Poland to ensure we are ready to support the military training and post-war rebuilding that Ukraine will need."
Personnel and logistics replicated
At least 1,500 military personnel from Britain, France and Germany will take part in the exercise, which will replicate the movement of troops alongside essential supplies including food and fuel.
The announcement follows US President Donald Trump breaking ranks with allies by declining to confirm whether Russia's President Vladimir Putin initiated the hostilities. Mr Trump also rejected claims that the US bore responsibility for disrupting Kyiv's access to the critical Starlink satellite communications network.
US president's stance questioned
When questioned about whether he had overlooked the fact that it was the Russian leader who initiated the war, Mr Trump avoided giving a direct answer and suggested the situation was more complex. He said: "I know the details, okay, and at some point I'll release the details. But I don't care anything except for one. I want that war ended."
Earlier this week, Mr Trump criticised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, stating he was "not a big fan" and asserting he was "more difficult to deal with than Putin". Mr Trump has previously indicated Ukraine required new leadership and maintained Mr Putin was keener on a peace agreement.
