UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that he has signed a “declaration of intent” outlining how British forces could be deployed to Ukraine if a peace agreement is finalized. The declaration, signed on January 6, 2026, alongside French and Ukrainian leaders during a Paris summit, specifies conditional deployment plans aimed at supporting Ukraine’s defense and post-ceasefire security.

According to the declaration, British forces would participate in military hubs and monitoring operations to enforce ceasefire terms, while contributing to long-term defense support, including the provision of armaments and protective measures against future Russian aggression. The agreement emphasizes that any deployment would require prior approval from the UK Parliament, maintaining domestic oversight over operational commitments.

The initiative forms part of a broader European effort, often referred to as the “Coalition of the Willing,” to provide security guarantees to Ukraine without necessitating direct NATO combat roles. By formalizing conditional deployment plans, the declaration signals a strategic commitment from the UK to deter potential violations of a post-conflict agreement while supporting Ukrainian sovereignty.

Officials noted that the declaration is intended as a framework for rapid coordination and planning should a peace deal be reached, rather than an immediate operational order. Starmer stressed that the agreement reflects Britain’s long-term dedication to European stability and the protection of Ukraine in a post-conflict environment.

Analysts view the declaration as a key diplomatic milestone, demonstrating UK leadership in post-ceasefire planning and strengthening cooperation with European allies, while balancing domestic parliamentary oversight and international security responsibilities.