British troops will take part in a major NATO wargame in Poland next month, aimed at ensuring allied forces are ready to provide Ukraine with security guarantees once its war with Russia concludes. The announcement came as UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting made his first visit to the US in his new role.
Exercise to Simulate Troop and Supply Movements
Speaking in Washington DC, Mr Streeting said: "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."
"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."
At least 1,500 troops from Britain, France and Germany will participate in the exercise, which will simulate moving troops and supplies such as food and fuel.
Trump's Stance on Russia and Ukraine
The announcement follows US President Donald Trump splitting from allies by refusing to say whether Russia's President Vladimir Putin started the conflict. Mr Trump also denied US responsibility for disruption to Kyiv's access to the vital Starlink satellite communications system, leaving the country exposed to attack.
Britain and other NATO members have maintained that the Kremlin is to blame for the Ukraine conflict, which began with Mr Putin's invasion in 2022. When asked whether he had forgotten that the Russian leader started the war, Mr Trump did not respond directly and implied it was not straightforward.
"I know the details, okay, and at some point I'll release the details," Mr Trump said. "But I don't care anything except for one. I want that war ended."
Trump's Criticism of Zelensky
This week, Mr Trump attacked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, saying he was "not a big fan" and claiming he was "more difficult to deal with than Putin". Mr Trump previously suggested Ukraine needed a new leader and claimed Mr Putin wanted a peace deal more.
