UK ready to deploy troops to Ukraine if ceasefire achieved – Defense Minister

Speaking to the BBC, Healey stated that the UK were ready to “put boots on the ground” in Ukraine in such a scenario. 

He added that the upcoming summit in Alaska between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin “could be the first step” toward peace in Ukraine.

At the same time, the minister stressed that London is prepared to “step up economic sanctions and pressure on Putin if he shows today in Alaska he really isn't serious.”

• The Times previously reported that UK military leadership had dropped plans for a 30,000-strong contingent to protect Ukrainian ports and cities, but reaffirmed its commitment to imposing “tough sanctions” on Russia.