(Commonwealth_Europe) Lord Richard Dannatt, the former head of the British Army, has voiced concerns over the UK’s ability to sustain a large peacekeeping force in Ukraine, as the government considers its role in the ongoing conflict. While he acknowledged the “right thing” being done by Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, in supporting a commitment to Ukraine’s defense, Lord Dannatt emphasized the significant challenges that the UK’s military faces in meeting such a task.
Lord Dannatt, who served as Chief of the General Staff from 2006 to 2009, stressed that, although Britain should play a part in any peacekeeping operation to help end the war, it lacks both the manpower and the military equipment to deploy a substantial force for an extended period. Speaking on BBC Breakfast, he said, “We haven’t got the numbers and we haven’t got the equipment to put a large force onto the ground for an extended period at the present moment.” His comments come in light of ongoing talks about the UK’s potential contribution to Ukraine’s future security, including the possibility of deploying British troops as part of a peacekeeping mission.
“Deploying British troops to Ukraine as part of a peacekeeping force would come at a significant cost,” Lord Dannatt warned. “If the Prime Minister is serious about wanting to deploy British troops, he’s got to realize that’s going to come at a considerable cost.” The former Army chief argued that to execute such an ambitious commitment, the UK would need to invest in expanding its military capabilities—specifically, increasing troop numbers, procuring necessary equipment, and ensuring adequate training for any personnel deployed.
Lord Dannatt’s remarks seem to echo growing concerns over the UK’s military readiness. Despite the UK government’s statement that it is prepared to play a “leading role” in Ukraine’s security and defense, the nation’s armed forces remain relatively small. According to Lord Dannatt, the British Army cannot currently maintain a large and effective presence in Ukraine over a prolonged period. He also stressed that if political leaders, including Sir Keir Starmer, are serious about contributing to peacekeeping efforts, they must be willing to secure the necessary resources.
The UK has committed to providing Ukraine with military aid, including £3 billion annually until 2030. In addition, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said the UK is ready to contribute to security guarantees for Ukraine, which may include deploying British troops on the ground if needed. However, Lord Dannatt urged that these promises be backed up with adequate funding and strategic planning for the long term.
This caution from Lord Dannatt comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions, with US President Donald Trump’s recent phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin sparking fears that the US might scale back its defense commitments in Europe. Trump’s Defence Secretary, Pete Hegsweth, indicated that Crimea could remain under Russian control.
Meanwhile, Sir Keir Starmer has continued to assert that the UK must be at the forefront of international efforts to safeguard Ukraine’s future. He has called for Ukraine’s inclusion in peace talks, reiterating that the country’s path to NATO membership is “irreversible.” His comments are likely to influence the upcoming discussions in Paris, where European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, will meet to discuss the next steps for the continent’s security.
While Lord Dannatt supports the UK’s role in supporting Ukraine, his warnings highlight the need for careful consideration of the military resources required to fulfill such an ambitious commitment. As the crisis in Ukraine continues, the cost of peacekeeping and security guarantees will demand significant investment in the UK’s military infrastructure, which may prove challenging given the current limitations of the British Army.
Lord Dannatt’s message is clear: if the UK wants to take the lead in global peacekeeping efforts, it must first make sure that its military is adequately equipped and resourced for the long term.
